2020 is the Year of the Rat and over the next couple of weeks Liverpool is hosting a number of events, both on and off campus, to celebrate Chinese New Year. Here are five events and activities to get involved with:
1. Look out for decorations across the city
In the lead up to this year’s celebrations, you will see thousands of Chinese lanterns start to light up the city centre streets. A number of buildings, including Liverpool Town Hall, St Georges Hall, Liverpool ONE, the Everyman and Playhouse Theatres, and our own Active Learning Laboratory will also be illuminated red to symbolise good fortune, joy and happiness.
2. Watch the dragon, unicorn and lion parades and street theatre, Sunday 26 January
Head down to the Chinese arch, at the heart of Europe’s oldest Chinatown, from 11am – 5pm on Sunday, 26 January to take part in the city’s Chinese New Year celebrations.
There will be Tai Chi, lion, dragon and unicorn parades and traditional Chinese dance, as well as family workshops, and our very own Guild’s 24 Festival Drums (performing at 2.35pm). Don’t head home without wandering through the popular Chinese market on George Street, which will be selling gifts and an array of tasty food.
Celebrations kick off at 11am and are due to run until 5pm. See the full programme of events here.
3. Learn traditional Chinese dance and calligraphy at the VG&M
The VG&M are holding two interactive workshops where students and staff can learn traditional Chinese dance and the ancient art of Chinese calligraphy. Both workshops, led by the University’s Confucius Institute, are a fantastic way to try something new, while also learning more about Chinese culture and tradition.
Event details:
Chinese Dance Workshop
When: Tuesday, 4 February, 1pm-2pm
Find out more and book your place here.
Chinese Calligraphy Workshop
When: Friday, 7 February 1pm-2pm
Find out more and book your place here.
4. Pick up some treats on University Square, Monday 27 January
Our Peer Mentors will be out on University Square from 11am–2pm on Monday, 27 January to welcome all students back to campus for the start of Semester Two. To celebrate Chinese New Year there will also be free treats available on a first-come-first-served basis, and two dragon and lion dances at 11am and 12.30pm.
5. Talk: A brief introduction to Chinese Popular Music, Monday 27 January
This talk will give you a brief introduction to the fascinating history of popular music in China since the early 20th century. Hosted by the Confucius Institute, this event will include extracts and samples which illustrate the shifting spirit, not only in the popular music scene in China, but also in the Chinese society in general.
This event will run from 4pm-5.30pm on Monday, 27 January. For more information please see the Confucius Institute’s webpages.
