Abu Dhabi: Hundreds of citizens, residents and Chinese expatriates gathered on Friday at Abu Dhabi’s Corniche to celebrate the Chinese New Year initiated by t Confucius Institute at Zayed University.
The Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is based on the Chinese lunar calendar, hence the date changes from year to year. It is China’s most important traditional festival. Each year is characterised by one of 12 animals, which appear in the Chinese zodiac, and this year is the Year of the Monkey.
The Chinese New Year, which started on February 8, is usually a time for family. Many migrant workers travel back home to celebrate together.
Many people dress up in red as the colour is believed to bring luck. Revellers also light firecrackers and give money in red envelopes or ‘ang pao’ that will keep bad luck away.
The Confucius Institute at Zayed University celebrated the New Year at Abu Dhabi’s Corniche to affirm the UAE’s keenness to celebrate cultural diversity and demonstrate respect for different cultures.
The Confucius Institute at Zayed University conducts diverse programs of language training and cultural awareness programmes to promote languages and reinforce cultural exchanges.
The event was attended by Lin Yado, Political Councillor at the Chinese Embassy, Professor Gu Weiping, Director of Confucius Institute at Zayed University, and Abdullah Al Hourani, Director of Events and Activities for Abu Dhabi Beaches.
During the event, Lin lauded the efforts exerted by the Zayed University, especially through the Confucius Institute, which promotes mutual understanding, spreads its language, culture, and traditions among the people of the UAE.
Lin also emphasised that arts and culture create meaningful connections between people and countries.
During the celebration, Gu Weiping performed excerpts from the Classic Chinese Opera accompanied with music and traditional performances and dragon and lion dances.
