As the Dragon Boat Festival approaches, the Confucius Institute at University of Science and Technology Beijing - De Montfort University (USTB-DMU CI) has planned a series of vibrant cultural activities under the theme "Embracing the Dragon Boat Festival with Joy and Zongzi." These activities aim to deepen students' understanding of the cultural significance and customs of the Dragon Boat Festival, while also promoting and preserving the rich traditions of Chinese heritage. The event attracted enthusiastic participation from De Montfort University students, faculty, and local residents.
10 June: "Embracing the Dragon Boat Festival, Crafting Zongzi" Activity
The event commenced with an engaging presentation by the teachers from the Confucius Institute, who elaborated on the origins, customs, and traditional foods associated with the Dragon Boat Festival. Following this, the teachers demonstrated the techniques of folding paper zongzi and wrapping them with colorful strings. After the demonstration, participants gathered around to craft their own paper zongzi. In no time, the deft hands transformed the coloured paper into exquisite and unique zongzi, filling the room with laughter and joy.
June 14: "Five-Coloured Blessings, Artful Egg Painting" Activity
The event began with a lively explanation from the Confucius Institute teachers, covering the origins and cultural significance of the Dragon Boat Festival. This was followed by interactive games that explored the festival's traditions, customs, and foods, with participants receiving Dragon Boat Festival-themed sachets as gifts. After the games, under the guidance of the CI teachers, everyone gathered to paint eggs with vibrant colours and weave egg pouches with multi-coloured strings. Each painted egg carried heartfelt blessings, creating a warm and joyous atmosphere at the event. As the event concluded, participants were reluctant to leave, commemorating the day with group photos.
This series of Dragon Boat Festival-themed activities, as part of the Confucius Institute's tenth-anniversary celebrations, not only allowed students to personally experience the festival's unique charm but also deepened their understanding and appreciation of traditional Chinese culture.
Posted on Thursday 20 June 2024