At the beginning of the lunar calendar year Asian countries such as China, Vietnam, South Korea, Singapore, and more celebrate what is known as Lunar New Year or Chinese new year. There are many traditions and festivities that are used to celebrate this day. A classic one being red envelopes filled with money as a symbol of good luck and prosperity for the upcoming year. Wearing new and traditional clothing mainly based on the color of red as well as partaking in dragon or lion dances to remove evil spirits are also principal traditions for Lunar New Year. Every lunar calendar is correlated with one of the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac. This year it was the year of the snake!
In order to honor this culture and celebrate Lunar New Year, Bryant hosted their annual Lunar New Year celebration on Thursday, January 30th in the library after school. There were a variety of stations set up that consisted of origami making, calligraphy, lantern making, traditional games, and a photobooth filled with festive props. In the library there was also traditional music that was played and danced to by a professional artist in which students also became a part of as they were able to join in with instruments.
Students were able to participate in all these activities and become educated about Chinese culture while also being motivated to learn more with prizes at stake. They were rewarded with Korean and Chinese snacks and drinks for taking part in a certain amount of activities.
To end this exciting celebration there was a diverse selection of food such as traditional Korean rice cakes, noodles, dumplings, chicken, and more that everyone was able to enjoy and try.
