University celebrates Chinese New Year

Feb. 22, 2018

On Feb. 16, DePaul University celebrated the 2018 Chinese New Year. More than 400 faculty, staff, students and members of the DePaul community gathered on the Lincoln Park Campus to celebrate at the gala, marking the 10th annual celebration of Chinese New Year at DePaul. The holiday, also known as Lunar New Year throughout Asia, begins on Feb. 16 and is the "Year of the Dog" based on the Chinese astrological signs of 12 animals. Chinese New Year traditions are built on the premise of attracting good fortune and avoiding bad luck. Whatever transpires on Chinese New Year's Eve and Day is believed to stay for the entire year.

Li Jin, associate professor and director of DePaul's Chinese Studies Program, greets the guests during the annual gala. (DePaul University/Jamie Moncrief)

This Chinese New Year marks the "Year of the Dog," based on the Chinese astrological signs of 12 animals. The last year of the dog was in 2006. (DePaul University/Jamie Moncrief)

Yinghui Chen, education counselor for the consulate general of the People's Republic of China, shared remarks during the event. (DePaul University/Jamie Moncrief)

Chinese lions take to the air during a form of traditional dance in Chinese culture believed to bring good luck and fortune. (DePaul University/Jamie Moncrief)

Guests watch as Chinese lions weave through the crowd during the annual Chinese New Year Gala. (DePaul University/Jamie Moncrief)

Master JingChao Wu of Chicago Bei Dou Kung Fu demonstrates Tai Chi during the program. (DePaul University/Jamie Moncrief)

DePaul students put on a fashion show to showcase Chinese-influenced attire. (DePaul University/Jamie Moncrief)

Dancer Yake Hu performs a folk dance for the crowd gathered on DePaul's Lincoln Park Campus. (DePaul University/Jamie Moncrief)

A quartet of students perform the Spring Festival Overture as part of the event's program. (DePaul University/Jamie Moncrief)

Guests line up for a buffet dinner at the Student Center during the gala. (DePaul University/Jamie Moncrief)

Guests snap selfies with the table decorations honoring the "Year of the Dog." (DePaul University/Jamie Moncrief)