Warmth on Chongyang, Culture in Heritage

Wellington College International Hangzhou Primary School embraced the spirit of the Chongyang Festival on 27 October. This special event brought pupils together to explore the beauty of Chinese traditions and celebrate the values of respect and gratitude toward elders.

The celebration began with Year 1 pupils taking the stage, their bright smiles and cheerful voices bringing to life the timeless poem 'Thinking of My Brothers on Mountain-Climbing Day.'

"Alone, a lonely stranger in a foreign land,
 I doubly pine for my kinsfolk on holiday..."

Their earnest performance, complete with charming gestures, captured the festival's themes of family and reunion, earning warm applause from the audience.

House captains then stepped into the spotlight as 'cultural storytellers', sharing fascinating insights about the Chongyang Festival. They traced its origins to ancient harvest celebrations and explained customs such as mountain climbing, enjoying chrysanthemum tea, and wearing cornel branches for good fortune. Through vivid visuals and engaging explanations, the pupils discovered how these traditions honour longevity and family bonds.

A highlight was the emphasis on respecting elders—a core value of the festival. The captains encouraged everyone to show kindness to grandparents and older family members, turning tradition into meaningful action.

The excitement peaked during a lively Q&A session, where pupils eagerly answered questions and showcased their newfound knowledge. Laughter and enthusiasm filled the room as the children connected deeper with the festival's significance.

To wrap up the event, pupils crafted personalised greeting cards for their grandparents and elders. With colourful drawings and sincere messages like 'Wishing you health and happiness!', each card became a token of love and appreciation.

More than just a festive activity, this Chongyang celebration nurtured cultural pride and empathy in Wellington College International Hangzhou's young learners. As they left with smiles and cherished memories, the pupils carried forward a timeless message: traditions thrive when shared with kindness and joy.

As the echoes of laughter and poetry faded, the essence of the day lingered—a bridge between heritage and heart. By celebrating Chongyang together, pupils not only deepened their understanding of Chinese culture but also strengthened the sense of community that defines Wellington College Education (China) - Hangzhou. In every story told and every card given, they learned that honouring the past is also a way of shaping a more compassionate future.