Yuntech International Affairs Hosts Lantern Festival and Lunar New Year Celebration: International Faculty and Students Gather to Welcome the New Year
On March 4, 2026, the National Yunlin University of Science and Technology International Affairs Office hosted the International Faculty and Students Lantern Festival and Lunar New Year Celebration, inviting on-campus faculty, staff, and students, as well as international students from around the world, to gather in a festive setting to welcome the new semester and the Lunar New Year. The event blended Spring Festival and Lantern Festival elements, using food, interactive games, and cultural experiences to create a warm, globally inclusive environment for cross-cultural exchange.
Event Highlights
The celebration was held in two sessions: a casual midday session and a formal evening gala.
Midday Session – “Wishing Dumplings and Casual Interaction”
Participants enjoyed steaming bowls of tangyuan (sweet glutinous rice balls), with the opportunity to write wishes on cards and hang them on the illuminated wishing tree. Students from diverse cultural backgrounds connected naturally through this interactive activity. Additional festive touches included name tags, stickers, and bookmarks, adding playful elements to the celebration.
Evening Session – Formal Lantern Festival and Lunar New Year Gala
The evening program began with guest speeches, followed by a buffet, student performances, a short video contest, and three rounds of lucky draws, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere. Multiple student groups showcased dance and talent performances, reflecting the diverse vitality of the international campus. Interactive games further encouraged real-time collaboration and exchange among students of different nationalities, filling the venue with laughter.
A central feature throughout both sessions was the illuminated wishing tree, symbolizing New Year blessings. From writing wishes at midday to photo opportunities in the evening, it became the most popular attraction. The celebration concluded with a group photo of all participants, marking a joyful end to the Lunar New Year festivities.
Remarks from the Director of International Affairs
Professor Hui-Ching Yeh, Director of International Affairs, noted that the Lunar New Year and Lantern Festival are key moments in Chinese culture symbolizing reunion and new beginnings. By combining traditional festival elements with international exchange activities, the event allowed students from around the world to experience the warmth and community spirit of Taiwan’s cultural celebrations. Professor Yeh added that the International Affairs Office plans to continue organizing diverse cultural events to create an inclusive, memorable, and welcoming campus environment.
A Cross-Cultural Celebration
The event was not only a festive gathering but also a heartwarming cross-cultural experience. From tangyuan and wishing cards to stage applause and laughter, the celebration infused the early spring campus with vibrant international color, giving every participant a lasting Lunar New Year memory at Yuntech.
International students enjoyed photo opportunities amid the festive atmosphere
Professor Hui-Ching Yeh personally conducted the lucky draw, adding excitement and anticipation
Winners of the short video contest were recognized, encouraging international students to document life in Taiwan through their lens
Participating international students took photos with the Director of International Affairs, showcasing the vibrancy and inclusivity of Yuntech’s international campus
The celebration concluded with a group photo of all international faculty and students, leaving a perfect early spring memory of the Lantern Festival and Lunar New Year event