Our blog this week is looking at the Chinese New Year celebrations which are taking place on campus and in the city on Sunday 17 February 2019.
Chinese New Year in Exeter
The Chinese New Year Celebrations which are run by the University are the biggest in the city and attract over 2,500 people. The day includes dragon and lion dancing, displays, craft, food and so much more. The event will end with fireworks.
What happens on the day?
See the timings below for information about what happens during the day to celebrate the Lunar New Year:
- 1:00pm – City Centre Parade
Dragon and Lion traditional dancing, starts at Buffet City, through Cathedral Green with a performance in Bedford Square. A procession will go along the High Street and Gandy Street and will end at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum (weather dependent) on Queen Street.On Campus Celebrations - 3:00pm – Dragon and Lion dancing parade inside the Great Hall, Streatham Campus
- 3:15pm – In the Forum there will be Chinese displays, craft stalls, food and activities suitable for all ages.
- 5.15pm – Cultural performances from our talented students will take place in the Great Hall.
- 6.30pm – Fireworks will end the day and can be viewed from the XFI Building (weather dependent).
The video below will show you what you can expect on the day:
Why the Year of the Pig?
Each year, on a twelve-year cycle, the Chinese zodiac is represented by animals. It was in 2007 that we last celebrated the ‘Year of the Pig’. Each animal has attributes which are said describe those who are born in that year’s personality. Those born in the year of the pig, are said to have a beautiful personality and are blessed with good fortune in life.
Accommodation Catherine