From February 11 to 20, Saint Petersburg State University of Economics (UNECON) hosted a series of events celebrating the Lunar (Chinese) New Year. The festivities offered Russian students and international guests an opportunity to engage with Eastern culture and share the holiday spirit.
On February 16, UNECON held a ceremonial celebration of the New Year – the Spring Festival – featuring an exclusive broadcast of the China Media Group (CMG) Spring Festival Gala (Chunwan). Dmitry Vasilenko, Vice-Rector for International Affairs, welcomed the participants of the ceremony: “I would like to extend my warm greetings to our partners on the Lunar New Year. The Year of the Fire Horse promises to be dynamic and full of events. UNECON, together with its Chinese partners, is already planning major initiatives, including the Forum of Leading Economists of Russia and China, the Second Russia–China Energy Dialogue, and many others. I wish everyone good fortune, happiness, and prosperity in the upcoming year!”
Mr. Song Zhenjia, Consul for Cultural Affairs of the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Saint Petersburg, extended a traditional Chinese greeting to all participants.
Students and guests had the opportunity to engage with Eastern traditions by participating in a series of workshops organized by UNECON student volunteers. Attendees could try their hand at the art of traditional Chinese knotting (“Red Knot”), decorate a Beijing Opera Masks, or craft a red lantern – a symbol of light, luck, and prosperity.
A standout feature of the celebration was an exhibition of works by Saint Petersburg artist Olga Ivleva. Her distinctive collection, “Kraski Podnebesnoj” (“Colors of the Celestial Empire”), was created during her travels throughout China. The exhibition was inaugurated by Luo Zhanhui, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Saint Petersburg, who shared his impressions of the festivities: “I feel truly at home here. Chinese New Year is eagerly celebrated in Saint Petersburg, and Chinese guests are welcomed with genuine warmth. Cooperation between Saint Petersburg and China continues to grow thanks to our joint efforts with the city government and universities such as UNECON. I wish everyone great prosperity this upcoming Lunar New Year!”
Over several days, the festive events offered guests a true journey into the world of Asian culture, surrounding them with the magic of Eastern traditions, vivid colors, and lively experiences.
