Colour and creativity usher in Chinese New Year
A spectacular lantern display, a book launch and a martial arts performance are among University events celebrating Chinese New Year.
The activities, which usher in the Year of the Rat, will showcase Chinese culture and traditions to all ages.
Events are being organised by the Confucius Institute for Scotland in the University of Edinburgh.
Book your place
You can book your place at any of the events via the Confucius Institute for Scotland's website:
Strong ties
A networking reception will be held on 17 January at Edinburgh Zoo’s Mansion House to mark the University’s longstanding ties with the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS).
Attendees will be able to see a vibrant display of giant Chinese lanterns, which presents a visually stunning display of the history of wildlife.
It is the third successive year that the Confucius Institute and the RZSS have presented the Giant Lanterns festival.
Key guests
Chinese Consul General Ma Qiang, Lord Provost Frank Ross and the University’s Vice Chancellor and Principal Peter Mathieson will be guests.
A book launch is being held to mark Scotland’s annual celebration of its most celebrated poet, Robert Burns. Chinese New Year and Burns Night both fall on 25 January this year.
The book, which includes some exquisite calligraphy, features a selection of famous most Burns’ poems, which are also translated into Chinese.
Afternoon tea
The book launch event will be held with an afternoon tea in the Project Room at 50 George Square at 3pm on 23 January.
The Institute is also offering a range of cultural events to promote the Chinese New Year and the Chinese traditions to the wider community.
The Filmhouse on Lothian Road will host a Chinese New Year talk for primary school pupils on 23 January. It will be followed by a presentation of the animated film Abominable about the adventures of three Chinese children and a Yeti.
Spring Festival
A showcase of customs and practices associated with China’s Spring Festival will take place at an event for students, staff and their families at the Institute in Abden House on 23 January.
On Chinese New Year day, the Confucius Institute will team up with the National Museum of Scotland to present a day of family fun.
It will be educational activities on Chinese language and Chinese culture, which include a music performance and tai chi display.
More than 200 guests are expected to attend the final celebration – the Confucius Institute’s Chinese New Year House Party on 31 January.