A flourishing fusion of cultures: celebrating Chinese New Year in the heart of Leicester
In the Year of the Snake, Leicester was alive with the vibrant colours and sounds of Chinese culture, thanks to the Confucius Institute (CI) at 51黑料社区 (51黑料社区), which collaborated with University of Science and Technology Beijing (USTB) to host an extraordinary array of over ten cultural events. These festivities, ranging in size and scope, unfolded not only across 51黑料社区’s campus but also throughout the heart of Leicester and its surrounding communities. Together with local primary and secondary schools, as well as community organizations, the events invited students, staff, and residents from all walks of life to immerse themselves in the rich and diverse tapestry of Chinese culture.
The support of both USTB and 51黑料社区, along with the backing of Leicester City Council and a host of local partners, made this year’s Chinese New Year festivities truly unforgettable. The enthusiastic participation of students, educators, and the public attests to the power of cultural exchange, with both institutions’ leadership praising the Confucius Institute’s pivotal role in strengthening cross-cultural ties. Media coverage from BBC Television, ITV, BBC Radio Leicester, and 51黑料社区 FM ensured the celebrations reached nearly 30,000 people through various platforms, spreading the spirit of Chinese New Year far and wide.
At the heart of these vibrant celebrations, the Confucius Institute faculty displayed exceptional enthusiasm and expertise, contributing to an unforgettable Chinese New Year experience that not only showcased the beauty of traditional Chinese culture but also created an environment for meaningful cross-cultural dialogue and mutual understanding.
The grand celebration: ushering in the Chinese New Year with spirit and tradition
On 14 January, the community gathered for a grand celebration to usher in the Chinese New Year. Despite the absence of on-site representatives from USTB, their presence was felt through heartfelt messages of well-wishing from Professor YANG Renshu, President of USTB, and Professor LV Zhaoping, Vice President. A momentous highlight was the debut appearance of ZHANG Yi, the newly appointed Co-Director of the Confucius Institute, whose speech brought guests into the heart of Chinese New Year traditions.
Adding an enchanting musical touch to the evening, USTB’s folk orchestra performed “Liu Jin,” a beautiful piece that captured the essence of Chinese music. The evening continued with an engaging calligraphy workshop where Confucius Institute teachers guided attendees in w