Durham University’s Oriental Museum to host spectacular festival for Year of the Snake

Durham University’s Oriental Museum has announced the return of its much-anticipated Year of the Snake Lantern Festival, taking place on Wednesday, 12 February 2025, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The celebrations culminate in the Lantern Festival, a visually stunning occasion where streets and homes are adorned with glowing lanterns. This year, in celebration of the Year of the Snake, the Oriental Museum will host an array of exciting activities, including dragon dancing, a special Lion Dance performance by the renowned Moi Fa Lion Dance Team, and a variety of snake-themed crafts. Visitors will als

Durham University’s Oriental Museum has announced the return of its much-anticipated Year of the Snake Lantern Festival, taking place on Wednesday, 12 February 2025, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The annual celebration promises an evening filled with vibrant performances, traditional storytelling, and engaging cultural activities for visitors of all ages. Year of the Snake is widely celebrated across Asia and marks the beginning of a two-week period of festivities, during which families gather to enjoy special meals and usher in good fortune for the year ahead. The celebrations culminate in the Lantern Festival, a visually stunning occasion where streets and homes are adorned with glowing lanterns. This year, in celebration of the Year of the Snake, the Oriental Museum will host an array of exciting activities, including dragon dancing, a special Lion Dance performance by the renowned Moi Fa Lion Dance Team, and a variety of snake-themed crafts. Visitors will also have the opportunity to enjoy a captivating retelling of the legendary Great Race and experience the rhythms of Durham University’s P’ungmul Korean percussion group. Charlotte Spink, Learning Coordinator at the Oriental Museum, expressed her enthusiasm for this year's festival, stating: “We’re especially excited this year to have the Moi Fa Lion dance team performing at the Lantern Festival. “With the amazing costumes and drumming, it’s really spectacular.” Junyao, a Durham University student and performer at the event, shared her anticipation: “I will be playing the guzheng, a traditional Chinese stringed instrument. “At this time of year, coming together with family and friends is really important and I'm excited to share in this celebration." The event is designed to be family-friendly, offering an enriching experience for all attendees. Admission is priced at £3 per adult and child, while children under the age of two can attend free of charge. Tickets must be purchased in advance via Eventbrite. Further details about the event can be found on the Oriental Museum’s website at www.durham.ac.uk/oriental.museum.