The gala featured performances of traditional Chinese dance. Photo by Emily (Xinchen) Su
Students celebrate Chinese New Year
Posted on 13 February 2015
Over 300 students of many nationalities took to the stage in Central Hall to usher in the Year of the Goat which begins on 19 February 2015.
The Grand Chinese New Year Gala on 6 February was organised by the York Chinese Students and Scholars Association (CSSA) and was attended by over 800 students and members of the local Chinese community. Guests included Mr Wang Ying, Head of the Education Section of the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Manchester.
Hilary Layton, Director of Internationalisation at York said the gala, which is organised jointly with York St John University, is now one of the Chinese community’s biggest annual events in York.
She added: “The event is colourful, it’s fun and it provides a great opportunity for students and local residents to find out more about Chinese culture, as well as helping our Chinese students feel at home. The University has very strong academic links with China – events like this help to enhance cultural links across the campus and the city.”
The gala was supported by the University’s Centre for Global Programmes, which organises international opportunities for York students, including summer schools and exchanges in China.
Originating in the Han Dynasty (206-220BC), the Chinese zodiac is based on a twelve-year cycle, with each year named after an animal. People born in the Year of the Goat are said to be gentle, mild-mannered souls who are also shy, kind-hearted, compassionate and charming. They are very creative and make good artists or writers.
Further information
- Chinese Students and Scholars Association (CSSA)
- Photos from the event (Facebook)