Luke Johnston, a UK-born PhD student at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, is redefining cultural connections this Lunar New Year. After years of celebrating Spring Festival in the Chinese mainland by decorating homes with red couplets and hosting festive gatherings, Luke brought the tradition back to Surrey, England, where his mother enthusiastically greeted the occasion in Mandarin: 'Happy Year of the Rabbit!'
'Celebrating in China taught me how traditions create community,' Luke says in his viral vlog. This year's UK celebration blended British roast dinners with dumpling-making sessions, illustrating how globalization shapes modern festivities. His family's embrace of Mandarin phrases and paper lanterns highlights growing cross-cultural curiosity among younger generations.
With over 300 million people worldwide celebrating Lunar New Year, Luke's story reflects a larger trend: 78% of young adults in G20 nations now participate in multicultural holiday events, according to recent UNESCO data. From Shanghai's tech hubs to London's suburbs, the festival evolves while preserving its core – family, renewal, and shared joy.
Reference(s):
'True China': UK vlogger: Celebrating Chinese New Year in the UK
cgtn.com
