The University of North Texas (UNT) recently embraced the festive spirit of Lunar New Year, engaging the campus and local community in a vibrant celebration of Chinese traditions and culture. This year’s festivities marked the commencement of the Year of the Dragon, an emblem of power, nobility, and good fortune, as part of the wider Asian Spring Festival that draws participation from numerous countries beyond China, including Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia.
At the heart of the celebration was an array of events organized by the University Program Council (UPC), enriched by the culinary delight of dumplings, the dynamic performances of lion dancers, hands-on crafts, and fortunes telling. The UPC, in collaboration with the Chinese Students and Scholars Association, crafted a culturally immersive experience, aiming to maintain the authenticity of the traditions being celebrated.
Niharika Dahal, a senior at UNT and the UPC’s Education and Awareness Coordinator, highlighted the collaborative efforts in planning the event. The association’s involvement ensured the celebration was both fun and culturally genuine, reflecting the true essence of Lunar New Year customs.
Lion dances, an integral part of Lunar New Year celebrations, symbolizing the expulsion of negative energy, were a highlight. According to Meng Yang, an adjunct instructor of Chinese at UNT, these dances stem from ancient legends and are performed by skilled martial artists, adding a traditional fervor to the festivities.
Off-campus, the UNT Chinese Ensemble, under the direction of Yuxin Mei, a Ph.D. candidate in ethnomusicology and noted pipa soloist, delighted the Plano community with performances of traditional tunes, including the “Golden Snake Wild Dance.” This ensemble, unique in Texas, showcases the rich musical heritage of China through a variety of traditional instruments.
Mei elaborated on the cultural significance of the Chinese New Year, emphasizing its role as a cornerstone of Chinese heritage. The celebrations, which include making dumplings and enjoying festive performances, are akin to the Super Bowl in their cultural importance to the Chinese people, signifying a time of renewal and family reunion.
The Lunar New Year celebration at UNT not only brought together students, faculty, and staff in a shared appreciation of cultural traditions but also highlighted the university’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive community.
