The Chinese Embassy in the United States hosted the "Evening at the Chinese Embassy–Year of the Dragon Celebration" cultural event with the local organization "Thing to Do DC” in Washington D.C. on Thursday, February 1.

The immersive event featured performances including a classic Peking Opera excerpt by artists from the Hong Dance School, Chinese and American songs using traditional instruments by the Washington Chinese Traditional Orchestra, and lion dances.

Approximately 300 guests from local communities attended and tried out Chinese calligraphy, paper-cutting, clay figurines, Hanfu, and iconic Chinese food at the event.

Minister Jing Quan delivered a speech to extend his Chinese New Year greetings to the visitors.

Minister Jing emphasized that the “Chinese New Year” is turning into the “World’s New Year,” after the Spring Festival became a UN floating holiday. “Culture goes beyond national borders, and the world can rejoice at the very same things and at the same time,” he said.

He also encouraged culture lovers to visit China, citing the efforts made by the Chinese Embassy to facilitate travel between the two countries through walk-in visa applications, optimized visa policies, and simplified application requirements.