On Feb. 24, Southern Utah University International Affair Office held its traditional Lunar New Year event in the Sharwan Smith Student Center Ballroom to honor the arrival of the Year of the Horse in the Chinese lunisolar calendar. Students, faculty and community members gathered together to celebrate the festival.
This event carried on the tradition of previous years, presenting the significance of the festival through various forms. From the entrance, decorations showcasing local cultural characteristics could be seen everywhere.
The entire ballroom featured cultural displays such as lanterns, red envelopes and the character “Fu (福),” which means happiness and good luck in Chinese. It also provided special foods, allowing participants to truly immerse themselves in the cultural experience.
“We feel amazing and engaged, because we get together and celebrate,” said Vivien Li from International Affairs, “We are grateful to share food and culture with people from all around the world. “
A photo-taking and check-in activity was set up inside the venue and from there participants could receive commemorative stickers. Directly linking cultural dissemination with practical learning, a study abroad information desk was also featured, and halfway through the event the SUU Dance Company presented four different dance performances.
Christine Larson, an attendee of the event, shared her desire to learn more about this celebration in the future.
“I want to try more food and learn more about Lunar New Year celebrations,” said Larson
Not only did the festival fostered cross-cultural understanding and appreciation, but it also created lasting memories and meaningful connections among participants from diverse backgrounds.
Erin Wang, a student from China, also said that this event made her feel like she was at home.
This Lunar New Year event provided students with a platform to celebrate and explore the charm of multiculturalism.
To stay up to date on similar events, check the SUU International Affairs website.
Author: Fangqi Zhou
Editor: Fanny Felixine
Photos by Margaux Feret
life@suunews.net
