Lunar New Year celebrations began on Thursday, January 17, 2023, at Westbury Christian to usher in the Year of the Rabbit (Chinese calendar) and the Year of the Cat (Vietnamese calendar). One of the most important celebrations among East and Southeast Asian cultures, Lunar New Year will be celebrated by more than one billion people throughout the world with a variety of traditions. WCS international students from China, Vietnam and Thailand shared their celebrations with their fellow classmates.
During chapel on Thursday, January 17, middle school and high school students observed a special performance led by our international students. Student leaders Moyan (9th), Changliang (9th), Jiaxin (10th), Dina (10th), Feiran (11th), and Agnes (8th) planned and led the Lunar New Year presentation. The presentation included performances of traditional dances by Jiaxin and Changliang, songs by Feiran and Moyan, and the playing of the guzheng, a traditional Chinese instrument, by Dina. 
On Saturday, January 21, middle school and high school students celebrated with their annual Lunar New Year celebration and dumpling-making workshop. Students and teachers came together to make dumplings from scratch, learn about calligraphy, and enjoyed a time of fellowship with one another. Jiaxin, who serves as the WCS Student Council International Representative, planned and coordinated the event with the help of Tony, Agnes, Daniel, Zack, Jason, and Felis.
“Saturday was a beautiful example of our students coming together to celebrate each other’s cultures,” says High School Principal Kaitlyn Ballard. “It was special and unique, and these events don’t happen everywhere. It’s fun to highlight our students’ cultures and diversity.”
“I think that WCS is such a special place that students who are away from their families, homelands, and native language feel comfortable enough to share their beautiful light with their peers,” says Middle School Social Studies Teacher and WCS Cultural Coach Mrs. Jackie Roman. “They know they are loved and respected as the wonderful individuals God made them, and they want to welcome us into their customs and traditions. I am so proud of our students and proud to be part of this wonderful community. I also loved all the delicious food, music, and fellowship.”
Check out our social media pages for more images of celebrations!
To watch our Lunar New Year Celebrations, watch here.
To learn more about our International Students, visit here.
