Graphic of a dragon puppet with three people holding it. 2024 is written next to it.

Happy Lunar New Year from our Vice-Chancellor

A message from Professor Andy Schofield, Vice-Chancellor of Lancaster University.

Lunar New Year

Lancaster is a diverse and supportive community of students, staff, alumni and partners from all around the world. We love to celebrate cultures and share experiences with each other.

The Lunar New Year is always an exciting time at Lancaster. It's an opportunity for people from all over the world to come together and learn about different traditions. Vibrant celebrations are held in venues across campus and the city.

Join celebrations on campus where you can watch musical performances and eat Chinese food; go to the Chinese New Year variety show at Lancaster Grand Theatre or watch dragon and lion dance performances at the carnival in Lancaster city centre.

Speak to our students online to find out more, or get in touch if you have any questions.

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Year of the Dragon

The dragon is the only mythical creature in the lunar calendar; a supernatural being with no match for confidence and intelligence. The dragon symbolises honour, success and brings good fortune.

These are all things we wish for our students, who come from over 100 countries. The Lancaster experience is unique to each person, and you are guided and supported to achieve your best. From your course and department to the colleges and student societies, you will be encouraged to develop and express yourself and to share your experiences with others.

Circular image of the dragon's face from the main illustration.

Meet the artist

This year we’re delighted to have commissioned Arwen (Yawen Zheng) to capture the spirit of the Dragon Year in our 2024 Lunar New Year illustration.

“Hello, I’m Arwen, an artist and illustrator currently pursuing my PhD in Art at Lancaster Institute for the Contemporary Arts (LICA). I’m thrilled to share my latest creation with you - an illustration that captures the essence of the dragon year; the celebratory New Year atmosphere, the fun of the dragon dance, and firework shows. As a tradition, I always make dumplings during the New Year. I make wishes as I cook, and I feel empowered and blessed when I eat it. I hope my illustration brings joy and happiness to your life, just like it did for me when I was creating it!”

Lancaster PhD student Yawen Zheng

8 ways to mark the Year of the Dragon

  • Celebrate with our Confucius Institute

    The Roundhouse will be decorated for New Year and hosting celebrations on campus. Come and join students and staff for food, music and activities.

  • Watch the dragon dance in Lancaster

    Other highlights of the outdoor carnival are a magic show, drumming, and martial arts performances - organised by two of our alumni.

  • Make red decorations

    Red decorations such as couplets, lanterns and paper cuttings symbolise luck for the new year ahead. Learn how to make your own paper decorations with our Confucius Institute teacher Haoqian Hu.

  • Look out for college celebrations

    Our colleges are planning their own celebrations, with food and activities. Check out their events pages to find out more.

  • Gather friends to cook or share a meal

    Cook a new recipe for friends like dumplings or share a hot pot. Meet at Guan Zi, the Chinese restaurant on campus.

  • Visit a local art gallery or museum

    Learn about different cultures by visiting an exhibition or event in your local museum. Throughout February Steve Thomas is exhibiting photography of his travels in Chongqing, here on campus.

  • Celebrate with friends

    Our international student community celebrate with many different traditions. One of our students has shared her celebration ideas from last year.

  • Start learning a new language or hobby

    New Year is a great time to start a new hobby. Our Confucius Institute offer a variety of classes. Try learning calligraphy, tai chi or Chinese language.