International Program

Lunar New Year celebrations

In 2019, Lunar New Year began on 5 February and marked the Year of the Pig. Lunar New Year is the one of the most important days on the calendar for any Asian countries. It is a time to say goodbye to the old and welcome the new. At that time, the family will get together and have a grand feast which is meant to bring good luck and long life to the whole family.

On Wednesday 6 February, Mentone Girls’ Secondary College had a Lucky Lion Dance. The dragon and lion symbolise auspiciousness, honor, bravery and power.  They protect people and animals and bring good luck and happiness.

The lion that came to MGSC was red, had two big eyes and fluffy mane. It was performed by two people and there were four others of the troupe that played the drum and a traditional Chinese instrument ‘luo’ to make music which helps to rid of bad and unlucky things. The lion jumped up and down among the sound of drum and luo and played with staff and students.  Ms Brown gave it a red package that symbolised good luck and wealth. The lion gave students lettuce. In Chinese, the sound of lettuce is ‘cai’ and its homonym is ‘money’. It was really festive. We were very lucky to have this activity at our school.

Hanwen Liu (Year 10)