A buzz of excitement and curiosity was in the air as YCIS Shanghai community decked the halls with red lanterns, snowflakes, and Chinese knots to welcome the Lunar Year of the Rabbit.

On the Pudong campus, Chinese teachers and student assistants arrived early to set the festive mood with decorations in all hues of red. Two rounds of lively performances were held, showcasing a lion and dragon dance, violin performances, choirs, kung fu and folk dances to full houses. Students and parents were also invited to visit 11 activity rooms, where they learned to play Chinese folk games, make traditional Chinese crafts, and sample freshly made dim sum. Every child received a set of exquisite paper cuts to take home.

Over in Puxi, students were armed with passports and badges to embark on a journey through 12 Chinese cultural workshops. Art teachers tried their hand at Chinese calligraphy and painting while students braved the Happy Chopsticks challenge. Primary students and teachers also treated the audience to an artistic sword dance and a hip fashion show of silk garments, Chinese opera costumes, and sunglasses.  As part of the school’s mission to align with love and charity, part of the events raised funds for Red Cross Foundation’s Study Aid programme.

The praise from children, parents and teachers was testament to the success of the event organised by the Chinese teachers and Secondary students, who made the celebrations a welcomed and enjoyable lesson on the Chinese culture, tradition, and spirit of kinship during the most important holiday of the lunar calendar.