Iconinc's Festive Celebration of Chinese New Year

• 16 Feb, '24
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As the Lunar New Year approached, we at Iconinc embarked on a mission to bring the vibrant spirit of Chinese culture to its residents. We put on an unforgettable celebration that seamlessly blended tradition with modern luxury, providing students with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in rich heritage this year of the Dragon.

In preparation for the Spring Festival, our wonderful staff decorated each Iconinc location with beautiful paper lanterns, couplets, lights and more to bring everyone into the festive spirit as soon as they stepped through the front door. Wanting to bring good fortune to our lovely residents, we made sure to deck the reception out in vibrant reds and golds, serving as a visual feast, evoking feelings of warmth, joy, and anticipation for the festivities to come!

Our first event to get ready for Chinese New Year was the opportunity for residents to engage in the creation of traditional Chinese couplets, known as "fai chun". These phrases, written on red paper and displayed prominently in homes during the holiday season, symbolise hopes and aspirations for the new year. So, ink at the ready, residents let their creativity flow as they crafted their own couplets, imbuing personal meaning and intention into each phrase. The resulting artworks not only adorned their apartments but also served as powerful reminders of the collective optimism and goodwill shared among the community.

No celebration of Chinese New Year would be complete without indulging in the culinary delights of the occasion, and we ensured that residents experienced the authentic flavours of Chinese cuisine. Collaborating with the likes of Gong Cha, loved internationally, residents were treated to refreshing boba! Additionally, an array of Chinese delicacies were brought in for the evening, tantalising taste buds and transporting residents on a culinary journey through the rich and diverse tapestry of Chinese gastronomy.

Adding an element of excitement and intrigue to the festivities, Iconinc organised a red envelope game that had residents buzzing with anticipation. Inspired by the traditional Chinese custom of gifting red envelopes filled with money as a symbol of good luck and prosperity, the game offered participants the chance to win exciting prizes by engaging in various activities and challenges!

As the evening drew to a close the spirit of Chinese New Year lingered in the air, infusing the atmosphere with a sense of renewal, hope, and possibility. Through our blend of tradition, culture, and luxury, we succeeded in creating an experience that not only honoured the age-old customs of Chinese New Year but also fostered a sense of belonging and connection among its diverse community of residents. There was a great atmosphere throughout these events, with students having the opportunity to keep learning about new cultures, or help feel at home while studying abroad. We are dedicated to being a home-away-from-home and when we see the effects of this, with warm smiles all around, it helps us know we are doing a good job, and keeps us striving for more for our communities!