Cecelia Hou is an Accounting Finance student from China. Here, Cecelia shares how she will be celebrating this Chinese New Year and shares her reflection on celebrating away from home.
As the Spring Festival of 2024 approaches, I’m excited to share how I plan to celebrate this cherished time in Liverpool, far from my home in China.
Chinese New Year, for me, is synonymous with warmth, joy, and a fresh start. Though I’m thousands of miles away from home, I’m determined to keep the traditions alive here in Liverpool. My plans revolve around two key activities that promise to make this festival as memorable and delightful as it is back home.
Hosting a hotpot dinner
There’s something incredibly comforting about gathering around a steaming pot of broth, cooking a variety of meats, vegetables, and noodles. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a bonding experience.
My friends and I plan to visit a local Chinese supermarket to pick fresh ingredients. It’s surprisingly easy to find authentic Chinese ingredients here in Liverpool, which makes the experience feel even more like home
Attending the Spring Festival activities
I’m particularly looking forward to the traditional dragon and lion dances, and the martial arts displays, which will be organized by the Confucius Institute in St George’s Hall at the University of Liverpool. These performances are not just entertaining; they are a vivid reminder of my culture and heritage. It’s heartening to know that such an integral part of our culture is celebrated here in Liverpool, providing a touch of familiarity in a foreign land.
Celebrating away from home
This year marks my first Chinese New Year in Liverpool, and I am filled with anticipation. While the physical distance from my family is hard, these activities help bridge that gap, bringing a sense of home to my experience abroad. Through the simple joy of a hotpot meal and the vibrant cultural showcase at the University, I am reminded of the richness of our traditions and the unifying power of our celebrations.
To all my fellow students in Liverpool, whether you’re from China or elsewhere, I warmly invite you to join in these celebrations. It’s a beautiful opportunity to experience Chinese culture, to learn, and to be part of something that’s incredibly meaningful to us.
As we bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new, I wish everyone a fantastic Chinese New Year. May it be filled with happiness, health, and prosperity!