Dar es Salaam. The Chinese Spring Festival, China’s most significant traditional holiday, has not only endured the passage of time but has now taken its rightful place on the global cultural stage. In 2024, UNESCO inscribed the festival on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognising its deep historical roots and enduring cultural relevance.
In Beijing — a city where modern life intertwines with ancient customs — the 2025 Spring Festival celebrations have garnered international attention, including from African expatriates residing in China. Among them is Bola, a television presenter originally from Gabon, who has lived in the Chinese capital for the past 15 years.
This year, Bola ventured into the city’s bustling alleyways, local markets, and curated exhibitions to explore and share the festive spirit from the unique perspective of an African in China.
A highlight of her journey was a visit to the China National Arts and Crafts Museum, where a special Spring Festival-themed exhibition drew large crowds. Among the displays were intricate traditional crafts and striking artistic installations — most notably, a grand dragon-shaped lantern, symbolising power and auspiciousness in Chinese culture.
“The craftsmanship was so detailed and beautiful,” Bola remarked. “As an African, I genuinely felt the love the Chinese people have for dragons. It’s no surprise they proudly call themselves descendants of the dragon.”
She also observed the cultural parallels between African and Chinese festivities, particularly the shared role of music in celebration.
“In Africa, we use drums to express joy and the love of life. Here in Beijing, I witnessed people using Taiping drums in much the same way — to usher in the New Year with hope and excitement,” she said.
In the days leading up to the festival, one of the most cherished traditions is visiting the New Year’s Market. For countless Beijing families, this is a time to purchase fresh produce, meats, fruits, and other essentials for hosting relatives and guests during the holiday.
More than a mere festivity, the Spring Festival stands as a profound expression of cultural pride, familial bonds, and collective optimism. For Bola, her experience offered a powerful reminder of the common threads that unite people across continents.
“In Beijing, I witnessed the most passionate and heartfelt celebration of life,” she reflected. “The Spring Festival is not only about tradition — it is a universal celebration of home, belonging, and hope for all humanity.”
