The school community came together for a joyful and memorable evening as we celebrated the Lantern Festival, marking the close of the Lunar New Year period. Now in its fifth year, this annual supper has become a cherished tradition, and many agreed that this year’s celebration was the best yet.
The event holds particular significance for students who are away from home during the Lunar New Year. It offers a chance to reconnect with familiar customs, enjoy festive food, and experience the warmth of celebration even when the holiday overlaps with the school calendar. As Abigail W (LIV) reflected, the evening ‘made me and my friends think about Chinese New Year at home with friends and family.’
The supper itself was a highlight, with generous portions that left the MIV especially delighted. Thanks to our Heads of Chinese, May and Miya, who kindly prepared the bubble tea. It quickly became the highlight of the meal, earning enthusiastic praise from students across all year groups.
‘I really liked the supper because I get to taste some Chinese food and I also get to talk and socialise with people across the school. I enjoyed the fun bits before the supper where we could win prizes. The decorations were very pretty and the celebration felt like home.’ Sophie X (UIV)
Alongside the food, a lively programme of games and activities kept the atmosphere buzzing. Students described them as ‘challenging but a nice laugh’, and a great way to ‘win prizes and support your peers’.
‘It was a lovely experience to be celebrating our culture in a different community. Everything was well organised and many people in my year group enjoyed coming. The games and activities were really fun and engaging.’ Abigail W (LIV)
A strong sense of community ran through the evening. Mixed seating encouraged students from different year groups to meet new people. The karaoke segment added to the entertainment certainly added to the energy of the night.
What stood out most was the feeling of togetherness. Whether enjoying traditional treats, taking part in games, or simply chatting with new friends, students embraced the spirit of reunion that lies at the heart of the Lantern Festival. Addy (Lower Sixth) summed it up, ‘Overall, the Chinese New Year supper was an amazing event we will remember’.
This year’s celebration not only honoured tradition but strengthened our community, reminding us of the joy that comes from sharing culture, food, and laughter. It was a wonderful way to welcome the new year and we are already looking forward to next year’s gathering.
‘It was a lovely experience to be celebrating our culture in a different community. Everything was well organised and many people in my year group enjoyed coming. The games and activities were really fun and engaging. The supper was amazing with the highlight being the bubble tea.’ Abigail W (LIV)
Mrs Christina Mitchell
Head of Mandarin
