To all our Chinese graduates and alumni in China and Hong Kong - Happy Lantern Festival 2016!

The Lantern Festival is celebrated on the 15th day of the first Chinese lunar month - in 2016 Monday 22 February - traditionally ending Chinese New Year Celebrations. The Lantern Festival is also the first full moon night in the Chinese calendar, marking the return of spring and symbolising the reunion of family. 

With a history of over 2,000 years, various traditional customs and activities are held during the Lantern Festival. People on that night normally light up fancy lanterns, set off fireworks, guess riddles written on lanterns, perform folk dances, and eat yuanxiao to celebrate the festival. Apparently the Lantern Festival is also regarded as the Chinese Valentine’s Day as the evening out creates opportunities for the singles to mingle!

Did you know... there are over 3,000 alumni currently registered as living in China. 

Interested in reconnecting with others in your local area? Contact Alumni Development Officer, Katy Hales for further details and make sure to check our alumni calendar of events for forthcoming events.