The Spring Festival over the Chinese New Year is a vibrant celebration steeped in rich traditions, bringing together families and communities across the Chinese mainland. This annual festivity not only honors cultural heritage but also fosters connections among locals and visitors alike.
Expatriates like Wendyl Martin, Lucy Lv, and Rachel Weiss have immersed themselves in the joyous atmosphere, offering fresh perspectives on this age-old celebration.
Sounds of Happiness in Guilin
Known for its breathtaking karst landscapes, Guilin attracts travelers from around the world. For Wendyl Martin, who moved to the Chinese mainland for work in 2023, his first Spring Festival was an unforgettable experience. Learning to say “Xin nian kuai le” (Happy New Year), he was greeted warmly by villagers and shopkeepers alike.
Exploring iconic sites like Elephant Hill and the Longji Rice Terraces, Wendyl embraced local customs. He joined friends in making colorful dumplings, a modern twist on a traditional favorite, while the Spring Festival Gala played in the background. Wearing a red holiday hat, he honored the festive practices and felt a deep connection to the culture.
As the Year of the Snake approaches, Wendyl eagerly anticipates participating in dumpling-making once again, ready to share festive greetings with everyone he meets.
A Taste of Luck in Guangzhou
Guangzhou, one of China’s oldest cities, is renowned for its culinary heritage and enthusiastic festival celebrations. In 2025, the city plans to host a spectacular 45-minute fireworks display and the largest lantern festival in China.
For Lucy Lv, her Spring Festival adventure began in a traditional teahouse, where she delved into the world of dim sum. Surrounded by steaming bamboo baskets filled with delicacies like har gow (shrimp dumplings) and siu mai (pork, shrimp, and mushroom dumplings), she discovered the auspicious meanings behind certain foods.
Shrimp symbolizes joy and good fortune, while fish represents abundance and prosperity—essential dishes during the Chinese New Year. Sharing these meals, Lucy felt the warmth of friendship and the strong sense of community that defines Chinese dining culture, especially during festive seasons.
A Touch of Tradition in Beijing
In the heart of Beijing, the Spring Festival transforms the city into a hub of excitement. Rachel Weiss experienced the lively atmosphere of the Ditan Temple Fair, where lion dancers moved rhythmically to the beat of drums, and families prayed for blessings in the coming year.
The fair was teeming with holiday crafts and trinkets, but Rachel’s most cherished memory was indulging in street foods like sweet tanghulu (candied fruit skewers) and savory lamb chuan’r (grilled skewers).
During the winter months, the picturesque Shichahai Lake becomes a popular spot for ice skating and ice cycling. Against the stunning backdrop, Rachel joined young people dressed in traditional hanfu garments, adding cultural depth to the city’s celebrations.
For Wendyl, Lucy, and Rachel, the Spring Festival has deepened their appreciation for its emphasis on family unity, community spirit, and new beginnings—values that transcend borders and connect cultures.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
