Dragons and Hanfu brought Lunar New Year to life at University of Galway
Chinese New Year in front of the J. E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics
By Jia Huang
Chinese students at the University of Galway welcomed the Year of the Horse in style, with a dazzling Lunar New Year celebration at the J. E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics. The event combined traditional performances, cultural Hanfu experiences, and cross-cultural interaction, leaving students and faculty alike immersed in the festive spirit.
Dragon dance ignites festivities
The highlight of the celebration was a dragon dance performed by an eleven-member team of Chinese students. As the golden dragon weaved through the Business School’s main hall, its movements synchronized to the rhythmic beat of drums, the audience erupted in applause.
Organised by the Chinese Students and Scholars Association (CSSA) with support from the Business School, the performance symbolised auspiciousness, strength, and good fortune; key elements of the Lunar New Year tradition. For many attendees, witnessing such a ceremonial dragon dance on an overseas campus was a rare and memorable cultural experience.
“The dragon dance requires teamwork, endurance and trust. Every rise and turn of the dragon depends on the team working in perfect harmony. It’s both a cultural showcase and a celebration of unity,” said Zhang Shuhong, a Marketing Management student and event organizer.
Immersive experiences
At the entrance of the Business School, a decorated welcome area offered a vibrant photo spot for attendees. The Hanfu try-on experience, where students could wear traditional Chinese attire, proved particularly popular among international students. Many participants expressed appreciation for the elegance of the garments and the cultural etiquette they represent.
Inside, the conference rooms were transformed into interactive cultural hubs. Games like ring toss entertained attendees, while calligraphy and traditional Chinese painting demonstrations offered a hands-on glimpse into Chinese artistic traditions. An introduction to the Chinese zodiac highlighted the stories of the twelve animals, bringing the lunar calendar to life in an engaging and accessible way.
Cross-cultural celebration
Beyond performances and cultural activities, the event created a space for open dialogue. A conference room was set up with snacks, beverages, and games, encouraging relaxed conversations between students and faculty. Discussions about holiday traditions, academic life, and personal experiences fostered cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
Mr Shuhong emphasised the importance of interaction: “We wanted students from different backgrounds to actively participate, not just observe. Through the dragon dance, games, and social activities, everyone can engage with Chinese culture and connect with one another.”
A celebration community
From planning to execution, the event showcased the dedication and creativity of Chinese students at the University of Galway. Supported by the Business School, the CSSA team successfully integrated traditional cultural elements into the campus environment, bringing the Spring Festival to life.
The celebration not only highlighted the richness of Chinese culture but also strengthened cross-cultural bonds on campus, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
