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Oxford International College
OIC Oxford
30 January, 2025

Students Enjoy a Festive and Cultural Lunar New Year Celebration

Students Enjoy a Festive and Cultural Lunar New Year Celebration - Lunar Year New Celebrations
Embracing Tradition and Community Spirit at OIC
Oxford International College (OIC) embraced the spirit of Lunar New Year with a vibrant week of activities, cultural traditions, and community celebrations. From exciting games to festive decorations and a special celebratory meal, students across the college and boarding sites came together to welcome the Year of the Snake in grand style.

A Cultural Kickoff: Lunar New Year Assembly
The celebrations began with an insightful Lunar New Year assembly led by Director of Boarding, Kieran Jones, who introduced students to the significance of the festival. The assembly explored the meaning, traditions, and historical importance of Lunar New Year, helping students gain a deeper appreciation for this widely celebrated festival across Asia.

Exciting Activities and Traditions
Throughout the week, students had the opportunity to take part in several engaging activities that brought the college community together:

  • Chinese New Year Play at Oxford Playhouse – students attended a special performance, experiencing the artistic and storytelling traditions associated with the festival.
  • Mahjong Tournament – Students across different year groups battled it out in a friendly Mahjong competition, sharpening their strategic thinking while engaging in this traditional Chinese game.
  • Red Envelope Challenge – The competitive energy continued with a fun ping pong challenge, where students tested their skills for the chance to win lucky red envelopes, symbolising prosperity and good fortune.
  • Red Lantern Making – Creativity flourished as students designed and crafted their own red lanterns, a symbol of hope and happiness. Common areas were filled with these stunning handmade decorations, adding to the festive atmosphere.
  • Lunar New Year Lunch – One of the highlights of the week was the special Lunar New Year lunch held across London Place, Threeways House, and Thames Street. The kitchen team prepared a delicious selection of traditional dishes, allowing students to experience the rich flavours of the holiday.
  • Extended Curfew for Boarding Students – To allow students more time to enjoy the festivities, boarding curfew was extended by one hour on Wednesday night, giving them the chance to celebrate with friends.


A Community Spirit: Giving Back

As part of the Lunar New Year spirit, students were encouraged to reflect on the importance of **generosity and kindness** by making donations to the local food bank. This initiative highlighted the value of giving back to the community during this meaningful time.

With laughter, learning, and lasting memories, OIC’s Lunar New Year celebrations truly brought the community together in an unforgettable way. Here’s to a prosperous Year of the Snake!