In an unprecedented show of cultural unity and shared celebration, three Finnish cities – Helsinki, Vantaa and Tampere – held Lunar New Year celebrations at the same time. This historic event, aptly titled “Celebrating the Finnish Lunar New Year,” symbolizes the deepening cultural ties between China and Finland and the two countries’ common commitment to promoting cultural exchanges.
Joint celebration across three cities
The festivities began at Vantaa’s Helsinki Airport, with an enthusiastic crowd including representatives of the Chinese embassy, Vantaa city officials, members of Finnish airport operator Finavia, and the Finnish Travel Industry Association. The celebration was highlighted by lively performances of Chinese folk music and the iconic dragon dance, a symbol of the richness and vitality of Chinese culture.
Vantaa: A melting pot of cultures
Mayor of Vantaa, Pekka Timonen, highlighted the multicultural spirit of the city of Vantaa and the integral role that the Chinese community and language play in Vantaa’s vibrant cultural tapestry. He expressed optimism that the Year of the Dragon will bring prosperity to the city and strengthen the symbiotic relationship between the two cultures.
Finland and China: ties that transcend borders
The Executive Vice President of Finavia expressed his honor to host the event, recognizing the long-standing air connection between Finland and China since 1988. Chinese Ambassador to Finland, Wang Tongqingexpressed similar views and emphasized the importance of cultural exchange in strengthening bilateral relations. Juha Ahonen from Helsinki expressed his warm wishes for the capital and praised the contribution of Chinese culture to the city’s diversity.
The “Celebrating Finnish Lunar New Year” event, a collaboration between the Chinese Embassy, Beijing Culture and Tourism Bureau, and local Chinese organizations, is more than just a celebration, it is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and mutual exchange. respect.
Accompanying the celebrations, an exhibition at Helsinki Airport will display works from the 2024 World Zodiac Design Competition and the “Hello, Beijing” Photo Competition until the end of February, providing a new platform for cultural dialogue between the two countries.