Families arrived at the Athletics and Wellness Centre in the afternoon, many donning traditional dress or vibrant red and gold clothing to mark the occasion. The celebrations began with a wide selection of cultural activities and entertainment, including a traditional Chinese tea service, where volunteers guided guests through the art of steeping and serving fragrant teas, a practice deeply rooted in respect, patience and mindfulness.

Attendees also had the opportunity to express their wishes for the new year at the calligraphy station, where they drew characters, phrases and pictures with brushes and black ink. Meanwhile, the sugar painting station captivated young and old alike, as skilled artists crafted intricate lollipops in the shapes of snakes, rabbits, fish and more.

Bridging Generations, a multimedia project exploring first- and second-generation Chinese-Canadian immigrant identities, also had a booth at the event. Spearheaded by Grade 12 student Katherine, the booth promoted documentaries, ’zines and other artistic expressions, providing a timely and meaningful reflection on the experiences of many families throughout Canada. 

As the evening progressed, adults made their way to the Dining Hall for a feast and entertainment. The event was emceed by Student Government Prefect Helen. The dinner opened with remarks from Principal Grace McCallum, who greeted the crowd in Mandarin and noted, "It’s great to be here with this warm and inclusive Branksome community. This celebration brings back a little bit of my time in China, which is so wonderful as I spent so many fantastic years in Beijing." 

Following opening remarks, guests ate dinner—a delectable fusion of Asian cuisines that brought together the flavours of China, Japan, Vietnam and beyond. As guests savoured the food, lion dancers graced the floor, weaving through the crowd with vibrant energy, entertaining attendees with their spectacular performance.

The entertainment continued with several live music and dance performances including The Grade 11 band, Mr. Munchkins Man, featuring Danielle, Gracie, Rachael and Saturn, making their Branksome debut and a Peking Opera performance. Junior School students from SK to Grade 5 showcased traditional dances and Senior and Middle School students presented vocal performances.

The evening concluded with a raffle and closing remarks from Susan Austin, the Branksome Hall Parents’ Association Parent Socials Lead. “I would like to extend a heartfelt acknowledgement to all of our guests this evening who celebrate or may not themselves celebrate Lunar New Year, but who have joined us as friends of parents, or daughters who join us simply out of a genuine interest in learning more about this vibrant community. Your presence tonight embodies the spirit of Branksome parents, showcasing our commitment to being an open, welcoming and internationally-minded school.”

With a shared sense of joy and unity, the community has ushered in the year of the Wood Snake. A big thank you to our parent and student volunteers for making this night so special. Branksome Hall wishes everyone a Happy Lunar New Year! 新年快乐!