From the Americas to South Asia, countries around the world are joining in the celebration of the upcoming Chinese New Year through a series of cultural events that highlight friendship, exchange, and shared joy.
The Spring Festival, which falls on Feb. 17 this year, marks the start of the Chinese New Year, the most important holiday in China. This year ushers in the Year of the Horse, the seventh animal in the 12-year Chinese zodiac cycle.
In the United States, China's Ministry of Culture and Tourism recently hosted a "Happy Spring Festival" cultural and tourism promotion in Philadelphia, featuring concerts, exhibitions, and a special display on the historic ties between the Philadelphia Orchestra and China.
On Feb 1, Peru marked its second annual "Peru-China Friendship Day", established by the Peruvian Congress in 2024, with a lively temple fair in Lima. The event, co-organized by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture and the Chinese Embassy, featured traditional performances and screening of the China Media Group's Spring Festival Gala previews.
"This celebration is a cultural event that brings us together despite seemingly distant traditions. It is a Year of the Horse filled with joy for both our peoples," said Peruvian Minister of Culture Alfredo Luna Briceno at the event.
"Chinese culture has integrated into ours in a very special way. (The activities) allow Peruvians to feel deeply connected with the Chinese people," said Orlando Leyva Mesa, a Peruvian doctor attending the event.
In Havana, the Chinese Embassy and Cuba's National Museum of Decorative Arts held their third annual "Spring Festival at the Museum" exhibition, showcasing ancient Chinese porcelain products to local people.
"May this historical and artistic showcase demonstrate to the world the great value of Chinese art collections in our country, further strengthening the bonds between our nations as we celebrate the Spring Festival together each year," said Sonia Virgen Perez, president of the National Council for Cultural Heritage of Cuba, at the launch event.
"Yes, I always attend these activities and strive not to miss any. It is essential for two peoples like us to unite and continue strengthening our ties through culture, knowledge, and wisdom," said Luis Jimenez, a visitor.
Algeria's capital also saw festive performances at the Algiers Opera House as part of the "Happy Spring Festival" program, accompanied by previews of the CMG Spring Festival Gala.
"It's an honor to witness this festival. I've gained a deeper understanding of Chinese culture through it, like hanging red decorations, eating dumplings during the Spring Festival, and family reunions. As the Spring Festival approaches, I'd like to extend my festive wishes to the Chinese people and encourage them to keep striving forward in all fields, just as we have seen them do," said Walid, an audience member.
In Sri Lanka, Colombo hosted the first in a series of Chinese New Year events, featuring Chinese dance, music, and traditional arts.
"Events like this today remind us the true friendship between nations is built not only through the trade and developments, but also through the culture and people-to-people contact. As we celebrate the Chinese New Year, I wish the people of China and Sri Lanka peace, good health, happiness and prosperity. May the friendship between our two nations continue to grow stronger in the years to come," said Jagath Wickramaratne, speaker of Sri Lanka's Parliament, at the debut performance of the event series.
Spring Festival spirit spreads globally as nations welcome Year of the Horse
