Lantern Festival Celebration Lights Up International Student Center

On March 3, 2026, Zhejiang University organized a vibrant Lantern Festival at the international student community service center within the international student dormitory on the West District of the Zijingang campus. This celebration emphasized the theme of 'Inheriting Folk Culture and Promoting Cross-Cultural Exchange,' attracting over 30 international students eager to participate in traditional tangyuan making and riddle guessing.

During the tangyuan-making session, university staff prepared fresh ingredients and offered on-site guidance, explaining the production steps. International students teamed up, immersing themselves in the experience of kneading dough, rolling it into balls, and wrapping fillings. This collaborative effort allowed them to uncover the secrets of creating this cherished Chinese delicacy. Each uniquely shaped glutinous rice ball carried a shared symbolism of reunion and a hopeful vision of life. As the steaming tangyuan was served, a delightful aroma wafted through the air, accompanied by the sound of laughter and the warmth of fellowship.

Following the culinary activity, the festival continued with an engaging quiz segment featuring riddles inspired by literature, traditional festivals, and folk customs. Students enthusiastically tackled the puzzles, either reflecting deeply or engaging in spirited discussions, all while striving to answer correctly. The lively atmosphere was palpable, and those who successfully solved riddles were rewarded with charming gifts, enhancing their understanding of and connection to Chinese culture through this enjoyable experience.

By using tangyuan as a cultural medium and riddles to foster connections, this event effectively intertwined traditional customs with cross-cultural learning. It served as a valuable platform for students from diverse backgrounds to interact and learn from one another, enabling them to appreciate the richness and appeal of authentic Chinese culture through firsthand participation. The international student community service center aims to further deepen cross-cultural integration by introducing more unique cultural activities, allowing students to strengthen their ties and deepen their understanding of Chinese culture.

The Lantern Festival at Zhejiang University stands as a testament to the institution's commitment to creating an inclusive environment for international students. Such initiatives not only enhance cultural appreciation but also pave the way for lasting friendships and meaningful exchanges among students. As more cultural experiences are curated, the university reinforces its role in facilitating engagement and understanding among its diverse student body.