Golden Snake Welcomes Spring
What is the Flavor of the Chinese New Year?
It is the sweet and sour taste of candied hawthorn melting on the lips,
It is the softness of sugar figurines dissolving on the tongue,
It is the fragrant steam rising from freshly made flower buns,
It is the smiles and hopes on people’s faces.
As the auspicious dragon departs, the lively snake brings blessings. To celebrate the 2025 Chinese New Year, on January 22, the PYP Mandarin Department of Xi’an Liangjiatan International School (XLIS) held the “Golden Snake Welcomes Spring” carnival. Children steamed flower buns, painted shadow puppets, made wool flowers, and shaped dough figurines… In the lively and harmonious festive atmosphere, they experienced folk arts and promoted intangible cultural heritage. These activities sowed the seeds of love for traditional Chinese culture in the hearts of the children.
Scissors Dancing in Paper Cutting
With nimble fingers, cutting window flowers, painting a vision. Folding, painting, cutting, and pasting… Under the children’s skilled hands, exquisite window flowers and vivid figures sprang to life on paper.
Precision Crafting of Dough Sculpture
Ink Fragrance Soaks Woodblock New Year Paintings
Woodblock New Year paintings are a traditional folk art with a history of over a thousand years. There is a saying in folk culture: “No New Year paintings, no New Year celebration.” Applying ink and laying paper, a woodblock painting is completed with each push and pull, allowing everyone to experience the unique charm of this intangible cultural heritage and to develop a deeper respect for the wisdom of ancients.
Steaming Hot Flower-shaped Buns
Flower-shaped buns are not only a delicacy on the dining table but also embody people’s longing for a happy life. Every line, every splash of color, is a delicate depiction of beautiful aspirations.
Skillful Hands Create Plush Flowers
Plush flowers, a homophone for “prosperity,” symbolize good fortune and wealth. Under the guidance of teachers, students learn how to outline, tip, and bind, creating their own unique plush flowers.
Painting Shadows with Colors
Children pick up brushes and unleash their creativity on shadow puppets, transforming into color magicians who breathe new life and vitality into the puppets.
Games and Challenges Bring Joy
Hundreds of colorful ribbons hang high, forming a sea of riddles. Beneath the vibrant lanterns, some ponder quietly while others call their friends; in front of the ring-toss booth, whether it’s a direct hit or multiple rings, cheers erupt, and excitement and joy radiate from every child’s face.
As customs evolve, the essence of the New Year never fades. Organizing a vibrant carnival allows children to enjoy a fun-filled Chinese New Year. This celebration, rich in festive atmosphere, not only enhances students’ cultural confidence and identity but also deepens their understanding and respect for diverse cultures. Standing at the new starting point of 2025, let us raise a toast to the past, embrace hope, and embark on a new journey together!
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Author:
Carol Wu (Primary Chinese Language Teacher)
