What makes Spring Festival unique? For some, it's the aroma of festive dishes, the joy of wearing new clothes, or the tradition of family reunions. For others, it's the thrill of exploring the rich cultural heritage behind the celebration.

Jiading district in Shanghai kicked off its Spring Festival-themed event on Jan 22. Both locals and expats shared their personal "hot words" for Spring Festival.

A Swiss national nicknamed Xiaobai, who has lived in China for 20 years, chose the English word "special". "When I first experienced the Spring Festival, everything felt unique — fireworks, dragon dances, making dumplings, and hanging couplets," he said. He appreciates these traditions' cultural significance, seeing them as symbols of hope and aspirations for a better life.

Tang Fei, a researcher in Jiading, selected "fèn lì yī tiào" — meaning making a leap with all one's might — as his keyword. He described Spring Festival as a time for new beginnings, drawing parallels with his scientific work, where every breakthrough demands determination and courage.

This year's Spring Festival will mark the first celebration since UNESCO added "Spring Festival, social practices of the Chinese people in celebration of traditional New Year" to the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list in December 2024.

Source: Shanghai Observer