A truly global celebration

Party planet

Kravtsov says he looks forward to experiencing his first Spring Festival in China in Beijing, or perhaps in an even more rural setting.

"It's about harvest, it's about the agricultural calendar, and it's about our links to nature. So, I think we should go to a smaller city," he says.

He recalls first experiencing the celebration in Russia in 2020, when his university in St. Petersburg organized events for Chinese students.

"It was the first time I got to know a lot of Chinese friends, and it was the first time I got to know Chinese culture and traditions in a more open way. We did not know much about China and about Chinese culture (before)," Kravtsov says. "It was one of the most astonishing experiences for me."

Wen says there's even more to celebrate this year, as the Chinese festival goes global — in a now-official capacity.

"Spring Festival fosters an exchange of ideas and traditions across countries and among civilizations. So, wherever you are and whoever you are, you can just join in the parade and enjoy the delicious food, and even learn about Chinese crafts," Wen says.

"It's kind of not just about celebrating. It's more like learning from each other and growing together."