Henan TV Brings the Vibrant Spirit of Chinese New Year to UNESCO Headquarters This February
Celebrating the Rich Heritage of Chinese New Year at UNESCO
On the evening of February 6, 2025, UNESCO's Hall 1 in Paris buzzed with the vibrant spirit of the Chinese New Year. This remarkable event, titled "Our Spring Festival," was a collaborative effort presented by China's Permanent Mission to UNESCO and Henan TV. Attendees included ambassadors, representatives from various UNESCO member states, and leading figures from the organization, all of whom were treated to a firsthand experience of the unique charm of Chinese New Year celebrations.
The evening commenced with an upbeat overture to the Spring Festival, setting the perfect tone for the performances that followed. Henan TV showcased an array of live presentations from its "Chinese Festivals" series, highlighting the rich diversity and beauty of Chinese traditions. Among the classical programs were "Guardian Warriors of Longmen," "Phoenix's Ode to the Rising Sun," and "Phoenix Presenting Rituals," which captivated the audience with elaborate storytelling and artistry.
In addition to these traditional pieces, the audience also enjoyed beautiful renditions of popular songs such as "Silver Linings," "Empty World," and "I Only Pray Our Life Be Long." The night featured a medley from the traditional Chinese opera titled "Spring in the Pear Garden," alongside a mesmerizing suona performance, "Hundred Birds Worship the Phoenix." Esteemed artists like Karen MOK, LEI Jia, and YU Rongguang brought these performances to life, offering diverse interpretations that emphasized the values of harmony and reunification so deeply embedded in Chinese culture.
The event was not only a showcase of entertainment but also an effort to convey the rich narratives of China to a global audience through the powerful medium of art. By presenting these traditional performances, Henan TV has once again succeeded in bridging cultural gaps and fostering appreciation for the vibrant heritage of Chinese New Year celebrations worldwide.
As the evening came to a close, participants left with a deeper understanding of the traditions and values celebrated during this time of year. The ongoing efforts by Henan TV and the Chinese government to promote cultural exchange through such events underscore the importance of sharing one's heritage on global platforms like UNESCO. The night ended on a joyful note, reminding everyone present of the universal values of love, unity, and hope that the Spring Festival represents.
This celebration at UNESCO is a testament to the beauty of cultural diversity in our increasingly interconnected world, where traditions like the Chinese New Year can thrive and inspire in every corner of the globe.