BCI supports Leeds Chinese elderly community to celebrate the Year of the Horse

BCI supports Leeds Chinese elderly community to celebrate the Year of the Horse

The Lychee Red Chinese Seniors Project welcomed the Year of the Horse with a warm and vibrant celebration on Monday 16 February, bringing together older Chinese residents, their families, and supporters for a day rich in culture, connection, and community pride. The event was supported by Health for All, the Leeds charity committed to reducing inequality and isolation, and the Business Confucius Institute (BCI) at the University of Leeds, which promotes Mandarin language learning and Chinese cultural engagement across the region.

A celebration rooted in heritage and wellbeing

Around 30 older members of the Chinese community attended the event, many accompanied by their children and grandchildren. The atmosphere reflected the heart of the Lychee Red project: creating a welcoming space where older residents can celebrate their heritage, build friendships, and feel connected to the wider Leeds community.

Among the guests was Hu Rong, the Chinese Director of the Business Confucius Institute, who joined the celebration in support of the long-standing partnership between BCI and Lychee Red.

Cultural activities that brought generations together

The day featured a lively dance workshop led by BCI teacher Jiahui Zhou, who guided participants through traditional movements associated with Chinese New Year celebrations. The session quickly filled with laughter as families joined in, creating shared memories and strengthening intergenerational bonds.

Food played a central role in the festivities. Participants gathered to make dumplings by hand an activity rich with symbolism for prosperity and unity in the New Year. Experienced community members shared stories and traditions as they folded dumplings together, sparking conversation and connection across generations.

A colourful finale

The celebration concluded with a vibrant Lion Dance performed by members of the local Chinese community. The rhythmic drumming and energetic movements drew cheers from the audience, capturing the spirit of the Year of the Horse, strength, vitality, and forward momentum.

Recognition of Lychee Red’s wider impact

This year’s celebration came shortly after Lychee Red was honoured as one of seven awardees at BCI’s “UIBE Confucius Institute 20th Anniversary Partnership Award” ceremony. The award recognised organisations whose long-standing collaboration has helped the Institute promote Mandarin learning and Chinese culture across Leeds and the wider region. Read more here