As summer approaches, host families in America eagerly await the arrival of their international students, including those from China and other Asian countries. Understanding and appreciating their cultural traditions can help create a warm and inclusive environment. Take a journey with us to explore the fascinating summer traditions from China, allowing host families to deepen their understanding and forge stronger connections with their Chinese and Asian students!
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Dragon Boat Festival (Duanwu Jie): One of the most significant Chinese festivals, the Dragon Boat Festival, is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, which usually falls in June. The festival commemorates the legendary poet Qu Yuan and involves dragon boat races, delicious sticky rice dumplings (zongzi), and hanging up pouches of herbs to ward off evil spirits. Hosting a small celebration at home can be a delightful way to introduce your international student to this vibrant festival. This year we can celebrate on Thursday, June 22nd!
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Mid-Autumn Festival (Zhongqiu Jie): The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is another significant event in Chinese culture, celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, which typically falls in September. Families gather to appreciate the full moon, eat mooncakes (sweet pastries with various fillings), and enjoy time together. Inviting your student to join in the festivities and sharing mooncakes can foster a sense of warmth and belonging.
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Outdoor Activities: Summer is a fantastic time to engage in outdoor activities that are popular in China. Many Chinese students enjoy playing badminton, table tennis, or practicing tai chi in parks. Consider setting up a friendly game of badminton or table tennis in your backyard or local park. You can also explore nearby parks or nature trails for leisurely walks or picnics, providing a refreshing change of scenery for your international student.
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Tea Appreciation: Tea holds immense cultural significance in China, with a rich history that spans thousands of years. Hosting a traditional Chinese tea ceremony can be a wonderful way to connect with your student. You can introduce them to different types of tea, teach them the proper techniques for brewing and serving tea, and engage in meaningful conversations while savoring the flavors. This experience will not only deepen your understanding of Chinese culture but also create lasting memories together.
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Festive Cuisine: Chinese cuisine is renowned worldwide for its diverse flavors and culinary traditions. Summer in China brings forth a plethora of seasonal dishes and refreshing delicacies. You can explore local Asian markets to find ingredients for traditional recipes like cold noodles, refreshing fruit salads, or traditional soups. Cooking together can be a delightful bonding experience, allowing your student to share their culinary knowledge while you learn new techniques and flavors.
By familiarizing yourself with Chinese summer traditions, you can create a welcoming environment for your international student from China or other Asian countries. Embracing these traditions not only helps bridge cultural gaps but also fosters a sense of belonging and appreciation for their heritage. By sharing in the joy of festivals, engaging in outdoor activities, hosting tea ceremonies, and exploring Chinese cuisine, you can strengthen your bond and make their experience in America even more memorable. Remember, cultural exchange is a two-way street, so be open to learning from your student’s experiences and traditions as well.
If you currently are a host with us, we would love to support you in any way as you prepare this summer! Please contact our team with any of your questions!
If you aren’t a host, but would like to become one please fill out this form!