A Spectacular Year of the Snake Celebration at Pontio – Bringing the Community Together!

Yesterday, Pontio was alive with colour, music, and dance as the Bangor community gathered to celebrate the Chinese New Year. The full-day event, organised by Bangor University’s Confucius Institute, welcomed families, students, and members of the local Chinese community for a vibrant and immersive cultural experience.

Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed various activities, including engaging arts and crafts workshops that were particularly popular with families. The dance workshop was a major highlight, attracting enthusiastic participation from people of all ages. Spectacular musical and Tai Chi performances captivated audiences, adding to the festive atmosphere.

The celebrations culminated in a special gala performance by tutors from Goldsmiths University’s Confucius Institute. Their showcase of traditional Chinese arts was a fitting tribute to the rich heritage and cultural significance of the occasion.

Councillor Gareth Parry, Mayor of Bangor, praised the event’s success, saying:

“A heartfelt thank you goes to all the incredible performers who dedicated their time and energy to making the day so magical. Equally, we extend our deepest gratitude to the backstage crew, whose hard work ensured everything ran smoothly, and to the Confucius Institute for their unwavering dedication in bringing Chinese culture to Bangor City. This celebration of the Year of the Snake was truly unforgettable, and it would not have been possible without the collective effort of so many talented individuals. Thank you for making the Chinese New Year in Bangor City so very special!”

The Confucius Institute was delighted by the overwhelming response, with so many members of the community, Bangor University, and the Chinese community coming together to mark the occasion. The event was a wonderful opportunity to share and appreciate Chinese culture, and its success highlights the growing interest in cultural exchange in Bangor.