Lancaster University Confucius Institute celebrated the arrival of the Chinese New Year with two lively events in February, bringing together local communities, students, and families to experience Chinese culture and traditions.

Community Celebration in Lancaster City Centre

On 8 February 2026, celebrations took place in Lancaster Market Square and at Lancaster Central Library. Lancaster University Confucius Institute hosted a popular cultural stall featuring a variety of interactive activities designed for visitors of all ages.

Highlights included Chinese calligraphy demonstrations; the opportunity for people to create their own bookmark featuring the Chinese character “马” (horse); making the “马” (horse) character out of LEGO bricks; Chinese tea tasting and a creative station where visitors could discover their Chinese zodiac sign and make a zodiac-themed paper mask.

The activities attracted strong public interest throughout the day. Families, children, and local residents enthusiastically participated, with the Confucius Institute welcoming more than 2,000 visitors to its stall during the celebration.

The event also featured performances by students from the Confucius Classroom at Anchorsholme Academy in Blackpool, who presented a touching rendition of the Chinese song “China in the Lights” (“灯火里的中国”) and an energetic lion dance performance. Their performances received enthusiastic applause from the audience, adding a festive atmosphere to the celebration.

Festive Gathering at Lancaster University Confucius Institute

On 16 February 2026, Lancaster University Confucius Institute hosted a warm and festive Chinese New Year gathering in the Roundhouse at Lancaster University. The celebration brought together Chinese language major students, learners from the Confucius Institute’s extra-curricular classes and staff, creating a joyful community atmosphere.

Participants watched the Chinese Spring Festival Gala together, connecting with the celebrations taking place simultaneously in China. Guests enjoyed a variety of dumplings with different fillings alongside popular Chinese snacks, giving everyone a taste of traditional New Year foods.

During the event, second-year Chinese language students led attendees in singing the festive song “Gong Xi Fa Cai” (“恭喜发财”), adding music and laughter to the gathering. The Roundhouse welcomed around 100 participants, and the celebration was filled with warmth, friendship, and shared cultural experiences.

The Lancaster University Confucius Institute team would like to extend its best wishes to the community for a prosperous and joyful Year of the Horse — “Ma Year, great fortune!” (“马年大吉”).

Through these celebrations, the Lancaster University Confucius Institute continues to strengthen cultural exchange and bring people together through language, tradition, and festive spirit.