The Year of the Snake

By Ms Tingting Zhang, Chinese Language Teacher and Tahlia Hunt, Languages Captain

As we welcome the Year of the Snake, our Chinese language classes will explore its cultural significance. Students will learn about the Chinese zodiac cycle, traditional celebrations and how these traditions shape the festival. This is a great way to connect language learning with real-world culture.

The Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival or Lunar New Year, is the most important holiday in China, marking the start of the lunar calendar year. It is a time for family to come together, honour their ancestors and celebrate new beginnings with traditions that date back over 4,000 years.

Each year is associated with one of the 12 zodiac animals, which are believed to influence personality traits and fate. Over one billion people celebrate the Chinese New Year globally, with festivities that include fireworks, dragon and lion dances, and the giving of red envelopes filled with money for good luck.

The date changes each year based on the lunar calendar, and in 2025 it was celebrated on 29 January. The holiday lasts for 15 days, ending with the Lantern Festival, where people release glowing lanterns into the sky or onto water to symbolise hope and the future.

In class this year, students will learn more about the Chinese zodiac story, festive foods and daily traditions. Year 10 students will discuss family relatives and red envelope customs, while Years 7—9 will engage in craft activities to celebrate and practice cultural traditions.

Wishing everyone good health and success in all things!