Wednesday 29 January marks the first new moon on the lunar calendar and the start of the Spring Festival and according to the Chinese Zodiac, 2025 is the Year of the Wood Snake.
The snake symbolises longevity, wisdom, adaptability and mystery in Chinese culture. The combination of the snake and "wood" elements means 2025 will be a year of transformation, calmness, creativity and mystery.
The lucky red envelope! The red envelope tradition, also known as hongbao in Mandarin, is a custom that involves giving and receiving red envelopes filled with money, trinkets and blessing cards. Red symbolises good luck and prosperity, while the money represents a wish for a bright future. The envelopes are also believed to ward off evil spirits. China, Korea and Vietnam all have their variations on this tradition!
On Campus
Our student ambassadors will be handing out 200 lucky red envelopes around campus on Wednesday 29 January. Keep a look out for them from 11.00am to 3.00pm as you go around campus. They will be in locations such as Ravelin Sports, the Library, Eldon Building and Richmond Building.
Find out more on the Student Life Instagram page @uopstudentlife the red envelopes are filled with gold chocolate coins, good wishes for the new year and two lucky envelopes will have a prize! Tag us in a photo if you find one!
In Halls
Join our Res Life Assistants in Rees Hall on the evening of the 29 January to make Chinese lanterns from 7pm till 9pm to decorate your accommodation. Lanterns are a central part of the Chinese New year celebrations. They symbolise letting go of the past year, casting away darkness and welcoming a bright and hopeful new year. Book your place here.
Food on Campus
Keep a look out for the menus during this week which include a range of authentic food and snacks available from outlets across Campus.
Students residing in Rees Hall and Burrell House who have a catered accommodation package will have a week of themed dinners.
Community Activities in Hampshire
- Dragon parade, traditional lion dance in Southampton, Guildhall Square, Saturday 8th February
- Chinese New Year Celebration Extravaganza LIVE 3pm till 5pm Southampton, Mast Mayflower Studio Saturday 8th February
- Chinese Lantern Festival, Westquay Shopping Centre, Southampton 15th February. Workshops including Tai Chi, Kung Fu, Chinese dance.