Children, parents and students watched in awe as dancers in brightly colored dragon masks paraded around to the sound of rhythmic drumbeats. They performed the Lion Dance, a traditional Chinese parade, to welcome guests to Wake Forest’s Chinese New Year Celebration.
The event was hosted by the Asian Student Interest Association (ASIA) with help from the Chinese Student Scholars Association and other campus organizations.
“The dragon means wisdom and power, which is a sign of fortune,” said junior Judy Hu. “My grandma once told me that the dragon parade goes from town to town for half a month.”
The Chinese New Year is one of China’s largest celebrations and takes place over the course of two weeks. Often referred to as the Spring Festival, the holiday emphasizes family and tradition. This year marks the year of the sheep, which is known for being gentle, sensitive and creative.
Student organizations, such as dance crew Lost In Translation, performed tae kwon do and various dance routines at the event. Families and groups from the local community also joined in the celebration. Children wore traditional Chinese clothing as they sang solos and participated in the Lion Dance.
“The celebration emphasizes tradition, new hopes, aspirations, and dreams,” said sophomore Martin Seng, secretary of ASIA. “It’s a new year for us. Whatever’s in the past stays in the past.”
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