The Spring Festival, known as the most significant traditional festival for Chinese people worldwide, brings with it a time of reunion and renewal. On January 25, the Chinese Undergraduates Association of the University of Toronto hosted a vibrant Spring Festival Gala in Toronto, bringing a touch of home to Chinese students studying far from their families.
Amid the festive decorations and joyful performances, students gathered to celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Rabbit. The event was filled with traditional music, dance, and the sharing of cherished memories from past festivals spent in China. For many, it was a moment to connect with their heritage and find solace in a community that understands the warmth of the holiday.
“Although we’re miles away from home, celebrating the Spring Festival together makes me feel closer to my family,” said Li Wei, a first-year engineering student. “The Year of the Rabbit symbolizes peace and prosperity, and I hope it brings good fortune to all of us.”
Others echoed the sentiment of longing for home. Zhang Ming, a graduating senior, shared, “This festival reminds me of the times when my whole family would gather for a reunion dinner. I miss those moments dearly and hope to spend the next Spring Festival with them in China.”
The gala not only offered a sense of familiarity but also allowed international friends to experience Chinese culture firsthand. Attendees enjoyed traditional foods like dumplings and rice cakes, symbolizing good luck and unity. The evening concluded with everyone exchanging New Year greetings and wishes for the future.
For these students, the Spring Festival in Canada was more than a celebration; it was a bridge connecting them to their roots while they build new experiences abroad. As they embark on a new year, their hopes are united in the desire for health, happiness, and perhaps a reunion with loved ones in the coming festivals.
Reference(s):
'We Talk': Spring Festival wishes of Chinese students in Canada
cgtn.com
