Syrian Family Embraces Chinese New Year Traditions in Nanjing
The Chinese New Year’s Eve dinner is a cherished tradition that brings families together across China. This year, the Ali family from Syria found themselves immersed in this vibrant celebration, blending their own customs with those of their Chinese hosts in the historic city of Nanjing.
Zein Ali, who moved to China in 2010, was joined by his father and sister for the festivities. “It’s our first time experiencing the Chinese New Year together,” said Zein with a warm smile. “We wanted to embrace the local customs and create new memories as a family.”
The Ali family dove into the preparations with enthusiasm. They strolled through lantern-adorned streets, shopped for traditional New Year’s goods, and learned the art of wrapping red envelopes—symbols of luck and prosperity. The highlight was making dumplings from scratch, a hands-on activity that brought laughter and stories to the kitchen.
“Learning to make dumplings was fascinating,” remarked Zein’s sister, Amira. “In Syria, we have similar traditions where food plays a central role in our celebrations.”
As evening fell, the family gathered around the table for their New Year’s Eve dinner. Amid dishes like steamed fish and freshly made dumplings, they shared reflections on the significance of each item. “We learned that dumplings symbolize wealth and fish represents abundance,” said their father, Ahmed Ali. “It’s beautiful how food conveys such meaningful wishes for the new year.”
The celebration was not just about adopting new customs but also sharing their own. The Alis introduced Middle Eastern flavors to the table, creating a fusion of Syrian and Chinese cuisine. “It’s a wonderful exchange,” Zein noted. “We are building bridges between our cultures through food and tradition.”
The experience left a lasting impression on the family. “We feel more connected to the community here,” said Amira. “Participating in the Chinese New Year has deepened our appreciation for the culture and the warmth of the people.”
The Ali family’s story is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the universal language of family and festivity. As they welcomed the Lunar New Year, they also celebrated the blending of traditions and the forging of new bonds in their adopted home.
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A Chinese New Year's Eve dinner blends Syrian and Chinese cultures
cgtn.com