On 20 February 2024, the PHY hosted a Year of the Dragon Gathering in celebration of Chinese New Year for all the PHY students. The event aimed to embrace the vibrant spirit of Chinese New Year and make the Year of the Dragon unforgettable for all participants. As the Year of the Dragon only occurs once every 12 years, this gathering presented an incredible opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the festivities.
The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the chance to indulge in a variety of traditional Chinese delicacies, like Crispy Pastry Dumplings (角仔) and Laughing Sesame Balls (笑口棗), that served to all attendees. In addition to the delightful food offerings, students also had the opportunity to enjoy Fortune Cookies. These cookies contain a small slip of paper with a fortune or inspirational message inside. Students cracked open the cookies and shared their fortune with their peers.
Another highlight of the gathering was the chance to write Fai Chun (揮春). Fai Chuns are meant to bring good luck and express hopes and wishes for the year ahead. Our Department Head, Prof. Ren, wrote a Fai Chun to commemorate the Year of the Dragon with the students. Other faculty members also participated by writing phrases with blessings on the Fai Chun, hoping for a wonderful and prosperous year for all. Students enthusiastically wrote their own Fai Chun, crafting unique and heartfelt messages of hope and aspirations for both their academic and personal lives.
The Year of the Dragon Gathering was a resounding success. Students were able to embrace the festive spirit of Chinese New Year and partake in traditional activities such as Fai Chun writing. The event fostered a sense of community and provided an opportunity for students to come together and celebrate while enjoying crispy pastry dumplings, laughing sesame balls, and fortune cookies. As the Year of the Dragon unfolded, attendees left with fond memories and renewed optimism for the year ahead.
20 Feb 2024