Chinese celebration brings ancient traditions to Troy

Troy University students and the City of Troy have a chance to experience a holiday in Chinese culture and a big celebration without even having to go farther than university campus.

Students can bring in the Year of the Horse with the annual Chinese Spring Festival Celebration that will include traditional dances, elaborate foods and decorations, and the giving of gifts.

The event will take place in the Ballroom of the Trojan Center at 5 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 31. The tickets are $11 for students and $17 for others and are available at 116 Pace Hall on the Troy Campus.

Jack Dong, president of the Troy University Chinese Students and Scholars Association, is the director of this event and invites everyone to partake in the feast of Chinese food that will be laid out for all to enjoy, especially Chinese dumplings.

“Chinese dumplings mean wealth because there was a time when Chinese people could not afford many luxuries. Dumplings were eaten during special times, such as New Year celebration, and were hoped to bring prosperity and wealth to each family,” Dong said.

There will be several performances such as fan dances and an ethnic Chinese costume show. The traditional aspect of the spring celebration will also have a modern twist with Chinese pop songs and contemporary dances.

There is a chance to win New Year gifts when you buy red tickets with your regular admission ticket for $1. Each red ticket serves as a chance to win prizes and can be purchased on location or in 116 Pace Hall.

Chinese New Year is an occasion for watching the expression of Chinese traditions and learning more about the holiday. The diversity of Troy University makes the celebration of ushering in the New Year, the Year of the Horse, a possibility.

Dong has many plans for the celebration.

“Chinese New Year is one of my favorite holidays. It is a time when families get together and eat so much food. I am excited about this event and want to share this great celebration with everyone.”

Dong has also offered to deliver tickets.

“We will deliver tickets in the City of Troy that are offered by email or phone,” Dong said.

Bring in the Year of the Horse by attending the celebration on Friday in the Trojan Ballrooms at 5 p.m. Tickets can be bought by calling 334-808-6146 or 334-492-0339.

For additional information or to buy tickets by email, contact the CSSA at cssa@troy.edu or stop by the office in 116 Pace Hall.