Expats embrace Spring Festival activities in Xi'an

As the Spring Festival approaches, many expats and international students living, studying, and working in Xi'an are embracing local customs and creating unforgettable memories.

Todd, a professor from the USA at a university in Xi'an, took advantage of the holiday break to drive with his family to the Huaqing Palace in Lintong district, Xi'an.

"We visited the Huaqing Palace a few days ago, where we enjoyed the hot springs, and in the evening, we watched the drama dance The Song of Everlasting Sorrow," said Todd's Chinese wife.

As Todd lives close to the Xi'an City Wall, he can see the beautiful lanterns adorning the city wall from his balcony.

Speaking of the upcoming Spring Festival, Todd expressed his intention to enjoy the holiday with family, good music, and delicious food. Despite being far from his hometown, he feels a strong affection for Xi'an.

Ushurova Sofia, a professor from Kazakhstan who has been living in Xi'an for 20 years, stated that she is especially busy during the Spring Festival. From cleaning the house, buying new clothes, and preparing New Year goods, to pasting Spring Festival couplets, and enjoying a sumptuous New Year's Eve dinner, Sofia always has something to do during this period.

With a thriving family, Sofia often starts preparing for the New Year more than a month in advance. Upon learning about the diverse cultural activities that Xi'an has planned for this year's Spring Festival, she was filled with enthusiasm.

Rana, manager of an Indian restaurant in Xi'an, stated the city has become very popular, with many tourists visiting every day. Rana has witnessed the city's development and changes throughout the years, and he has extraordinary expectations for the upcoming Year of the Dragon.

This year marks Rana's 11th Chinese New Year in Xi'an since 2013. Pasting "Fu" characters, hanging Spring Festival couplets, lantern decorations, and making dumplings –  every Spring Festival, Rana and his staff members decorate the restaurant anew, inviting both Chinese and foreign friends to celebrate together.