Gong hei fat choy! Trinity College School students had the chance to welcome the “Year of the Rat” as they participated in Lunar New Year celebrations hosted by the Cultural Awareness Group and our Chinese students on Friday, January 24th.
Events actually kicked off on Thursday evening, with a beautiful fireworks display on the west side of campus, organized by the School’s philanthropy & alumni office. Traditionally, firecrackers and fireworks were set off on Chinese, or Lunar, New Year as a way to scare off evil spirits, but today they also add to the festive nature of the occasion. Many students were happy to don their warm coats and hats to watch the fireworks from outside, while others viewed them through the windows of Cirne Commons.
On Friday morning, our Chinese students presented a special service in the Memorial Chapel, which included musical performances, a skit and fun house competitions that challenged students to answer trivia and use chopsticks. Throughout the chapel, students learned interesting facts about China and the New Year. The symbol for this year, the rat, is the first of the 12 signs of the Chinese zodiac and is associated with new beginnings, wealth and intelligence.
During flex block, special food was prepared by students and presented in the Hawkins Mezzanine of Cirne Hall. Students were able to sample the dishes and donations were collected for the China Social Assistance Foundation to help students in China who cannot otherwise afford an education.
Throughout the day, Senior School students were encouraged to wear red and gold, two colours closely associated with Lunar New Year as symbols of good fortune. As well, at breakfast, lunch and dinner, students were able to enjoy Chinese cuisine in Osler Hall, including dumplings, yang chun noodles and ginger honey chicken.
Thank you to CAG and our Chinese students for sharing so many aspects of this beautiful cultural celebration with us!
