Last December, I traveled from Beijing to the charming city of Nanjing, a place that always fills me with inspiration and where I have amazing friends, mostly artists. 🎨🎶
Christmas Eve in Nanjing was magical. 🌟 The streets were full of young people enjoying life, laughing, and celebrating at both Chinese and international restaurants and bars. The energy was contagious! 🥳
As I walked through the crowd, I remembered my early days in China decades ago when I arrived in my twenties on an invitation from a Chinese publishing house. Back then, Christmas wasn't common here. However, our Chinese colleagues were always kind, inviting us into their homes so we wouldn't feel alone. ❤️
Just as we learned about the Spring Festival, which we now know is the most important event in China, locals have also adopted some Western traditions. The Spring Festival, celebrated this year 2025 from January 28 to February 4, is a time of renewal and family reunion. 🧧🎉
With roots over 3,500 years old, this festival is as significant as Christmas to us. It marks the beginning of the new year according to the Chinese calendar and symbolizes the desire for a new life. 🌄
In this Year of the Wooden Snake, the streets will be filled with joy, celebrations, and most importantly, family reunions. It's beautiful to see how traditions stay alive and how different cultures can connect and learn from each other. 🌍🤝
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
