By Darryl Gangloff
The Hotchkiss community welcomed the Year of the Snake with fun-filled student-led Lunar New Year activities, including All-School performances, karaoke and food in the Ford Food Court, and games and sparklers in the Student Center.
From its origins as an afternoon dumpling-making session, these School festivities have expanded into a popular multiple-day annual tradition thanks to the dedication of students, parents, faculty, and staff.
Yixi Zou '25, DH Lee '28, and Lauren Niem '26 kicked off the celebration with reflections on Lunar New Year during a Chapel talk on Monday, Jan. 27.
The next day on Tuesday, Jan. 28, Elfers Hall was filled with music, songs, and dance performances by students. (Watch a recording below.) Anthony Hu ’25 and Yixi Zou ’25 hosted the community celebration during an All-School Meeting.
“In many cultures across Asia, the snake is thought to bring wisdom, growth, and the opportunity for rebirth from the challenges of the past year," Yixi said. "Let’s enjoy cultural music, dances, and food throughout today’s programming. We invite you to reflect on this concept of rebirth and renewal in the context of yourself.”
Andrew continued, “This morning, we welcome you to another year of the Hotchkiss chūnwǎn, or the New Year’s Gala.” He explained that chūnwǎn is a variety show watched by families in more than 200 countries around the globe as they look forward to the Lunar New Year.
The community then gathered for dinner in Ford Food Court, and Hotchkiss is grateful for the generosity of many Hotchkiss parents and families who contributed delicious food. The FFC stage was filled with dancing and singing.
Students, faculty, staff, parents, and friends then made their way to the Student Center for an evening of activities, games, and snacks hosted by the Korean Club, Chinese Club, Triple A Club, and Pan Asian Club. Karaoke again filled the room with music, and sparklers ended the night in front of lanterns that cast a red glow on the snow.