SRU’s Feb. 17 Chinese New Year celebration offers food, fun
Feb. 15, 2018
SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. - Slippery Rock University will join millions across the globe in celebration of the Chinese New Year 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Feb. 17 for an event at the Slippery Rock Township Municipal Building.
Chinese New Year, a 4,000-year-old tradition that observes the start of the new lunar year, is also known as the "Spring Festival" in modern Mainland China and is celebrated at the turn of the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar. This year it occurs on Feb. 16.
2018 is the Year of the Dog in China. Those born in the Year of the Dog are said to be independent, sincere, loyal and decisive. The Dog also shows developed communication skills and assumes responsibility according to Chinese zodiac analysis.
The holiday is centuries old and gains significance because of several myths and customs. Traditionally, the festival was a time to honor deities as well as ancestors. It also serves as a time to reconnect with family and friends, enjoy traditional games, music and food, launch fireworks and take a break from work and responsibility.
"The Chinese New Year is the biggest holiday for our people, and we come together to celebrate with our families and friends," said Qi Chen, SRU assistant professor of chemistry. "It is special to hold this gathering at Slippery Rock University, and roughly 200 people attend each year."
Chen, who is leading SRU's celebratory efforts in conjunction with other Chinese faculty members, hopes that the ceremony will give a little taste of home those international students who are of Chinese origin, while encouraging other students and community members to take part in the experience.
"This is the 10th year that the University has hosted this celebration and we want to include as many students on campus as possible," said Chen. "This year we are excited to have the SRU Concert Choir joining us to perform a Chinese song, along with other local musicians who will use traditional Chinese instruments for their performances."
The free event will include a buffet-style Chinese lunch, interactive children's games, goody bags and traditional performances and songs.
MEDIA CONTACT: Autumn Harth | 724.738.2091 | ash1010@sru.edu