In the past week, a wave of jubilation has swept across the globe, marking the commencement of “Happy Spring Festival” activities in different cities around the world. With the vibrant hue of “Chinese Red” illuminating celebrations, the world has come together to share in the festive joy of the Chinese New Year, showcasing the rich tapestry of traditional Chinese culture through special songs and dances.
The Chinese New Year has not only been a festive occasion within China but has also been embraced globally as a time of joy and cultural celebration. The color red, symbolizing good fortune and happiness in Chinese culture, has adorned landmark buildings across the globe during the festive period.
According to a report by the Xinhua News Agency, a massive banner featuring Chinese dragon-themed artifacts was displayed in Times Square in New York City, extending New Year’s greetings to people worldwide. In New York, the Empire State Building also sparkled with red lights, highlighting the theme of the Chinese New Year.
The London Eye in the UK lit up in red and gold, signifying happiness and good luck. In Saint Petersburg, Russia, the “Chinese Red” illuminated the Trinity Bridge, adding to its serene beauty, while in Japan, the Tokyo Tower was dressed in red to send blessings for the Year of the Dragon.
During the Spring Festival holidays, many Chinese nationals chose to travel abroad, starting their new year with an overseas adventure. At the same time, numerous international visitors enjoy visa-free travel benefits to China, experiencing a different kind of new year atmosphere.
Young people dressed in traditional Chinese attire have spread the festive spirit worldwide. Data from Little Red Book or Xiaohongshu, a popular Chinese social media platform, indicated that this year’s Spring Festival saw over 10,000 influencers overseas wearing Hanfu, traditional Chinese clothing, to celebrate the new year. They brought the traditional attire to countries like the Netherlands, Spain, Malta, and Iceland, boosting the Hanfu’s status globally.
The Spring Festival is considered a “Chinese moment” of family reunion, as well as an international holiday celebrated globally. As introduced by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin on February 6, this year’s Spring Festival was the first since the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution to include the Chinese New Year in the list of UN holidays. Organizations such as the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization and the United Nations Headquarters in Vienna celebrated the Chinese New Year for the first time.
Currently, nearly 20 countries have recognized the Spring Festival as a legal holiday, with about one-fifth of the world’s population celebrating it in various forms. From east to west, countries around the world are resplendent in “Chinese Red,” sharing the joyous and festive atmosphere, and experiencing the splendor and color of Chinese culture.
