Lunar New Year lights up Abbotsford Schools
Last week, the Abbotsford School District became a place full of fun and colour as students, teachers, and families celebrated the Lunar New Year. From school assemblies to dragon parades, art projects and classroom activities, many schools throughout the system learned about this culturally significant event and what the Year of the Dragon means.
In classrooms, the learning took a hands-on approach. Students delved into the rich tapestry of Lunar New Year customs, crafting lanterns and exploring the zodiac animals, communicating their wishes and aspirations for the coming year.
The jubilant beats of traditional music set the rhythm for dragon parades that captivated many students throughout elementary schools, with a sea of red weaving throughout halls behind hand-crafted dragon artwork. This enchanting sight was to symbolize and honour prosperity and joy for the year ahead.
"The celebrations are more than just events or festivities; it's about opening our students' eyes to the world," reflected Ian Levings, Principal of W.A. Fraser Middle School, highlighting the value of cultural immersion.
Some schools made the festivities even more special by inviting families to share their own Lunar New Year traditions with the class. Parents and family members shared stories, brought in traditional foods for everyone to try, and showed how they honour the Lunar New Year at home, giving students a closer look at the traditions of different Asian cultures.
These celebrations are not just annual events but are part of a larger district initiative to foster global citizenship and respect for diverse heritages. They encapsulate the spirit of community and the joy of discovery, reinforcing the district's commitment to building holistic and inclusive educational journeys.
About Lunar New Year
Spanning multiple days, the Lunar New Year is a milestone event among East and Southeast Asian cultures, including Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean communities. The Lunar New Year typically begins with the first new moon that occurs between the end of January and spans the first 15 days of the first month of the lunar calendar—until the full moon arrives. The holiday is a time for feasting and honouring households, heavenly deities, and ancestors.
