Lion Dancing, Calligraphy and Prawn Crackers: ELBA supports Chinese New Year at Beckton Globe Library, Newham
Chinese New Year is celebrated for 15 days running from 5th to 19th February this year. You may have seen the parades in London’s Chinatown, or photos online of the large and colourful celebrations.
As a celebration of east London’s culture and diversity, ELBA collaborated with Newham Chinese Association and Newham’s Community Neighbourhood Team to run an educational event about Chinese culture and traditions. The event, supported by volunteers from one of ELBA’s business partners, ran during half term week as part of a programme of free events for local families.
The event saw children learn about Chinese traditions and how New Year is celebrated in Chinese culture including the giving of satsumas to symbolise prosperity. Newham Chinese Association ran calligraphy and craft activities, a Tai Chi demonstration as well as the famous Lion Dance.
Chinese is one of the many cultures which contribute to east London’s wonderful diversity. It was lovely to mark the festival with a fun educational session to promote and celebrate cultural diversity with some of east London’s young people.
