A vibrant Chinese New Year celebration in Reading

22nd February 2024

Gang Zhang, the Head Teacher of Reading Chinese School, took the lead alongside Lucy Daniels and Zsuzsi Lindsay from Reading Borough Council and Alexa Volker from Reading BID in organizing the spectacular Chinese New Year celebrations in Reading town centre this February.

The vibrant performances in Town Hall Square drew in massive crowds, who were thrilled by the captivating displays of red and golden lions, pulsating drummers, graceful ribbon dancers and the majestic dragon snaking its way through the enthusiastic audience. Not to be outdone, the Maguire O’Shea Academy brought the house down with their spirited Irish dancing showcase.

Dragons, pandas, lions, drummers and dancers painted the town with a kaleidoscope of colours against the backdrop of the historic Town Hall and St Laurence’s Church buildings. Families soaked in the joyous atmosphere and immersed themselves in activities like painting pandas, crafting fans and trying their hand at ink and brush writing.

The excitement continued indoors with a sold-out programme at the Town Hall. Attendees were treated to inspiring welcome speeches from Gang Zhang, The Mayor of Reading Councillor Tony Page and MPs Alok Sharma and Matt Rodda. The atmosphere was electric as the audience was mesmerized by a dazzling array of performances including ribbon dances, traditional dress shows, uplifting singing, lively dancing, and graceful Tai Chi demonstrations.