For Chinese students studying abroad, the Lunar New Year is a vibrant blend of homesickness and cultural pride. In New York, where communities from across the globe intersect, the Spring Festival becomes a bridge between traditions and new experiences. CGTN Stringer spoke with students navigating this balance as they prepare to welcome the Year of the Rabbit.
‘I stream the CCTV Spring Festival Gala with friends while cooking dumplings from scratch,’ said Li Wei, a Columbia University graduate student. Others described virtual reunions with families in the Chinese mainland and sharing hongbao (red envelopes) via mobile payment apps. Many attend local temple fairs or host potluck dinners featuring dishes like nian gao (sticky rice cake).
New Year’s resolutions often center on academic goals and community building. ‘I want to organize a cross-cultural art exhibition about Asian festivals,’ shared NYU junior Zhang Yixing. Meanwhile, student-led associations collaborate with museums and businesses to host lion dances and calligraphy workshops, introducing Lunar New Year customs to diverse audiences.
Though miles from home, these students prove tradition thrives through innovation – and that nian wei (the taste of Spring Festival) can be found anywhere.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
