Hwa Chong rings in Chinese New Year with flamboyant gala

Written by: Isabelle Lim (25S6C)

Edited by: Gilbert Goh (25S6C) and Lei Yanyang (25S61)

On 16 February 2026, both the High School and College sections of Hwa Chong Institution gathered for a morning of festive cheer and cultural appreciation as students and staff came together to celebrate Chinese New Year. The celebrations began at 7.40am with a combined assembly and joint celebration held at the Terraces, Cheng Yi Auditorium and College Hall.

The concert officially commenced at the Terraces at 8.20am with an exhilarating performance by the Hwa Chong Scouts’ Lion Dance Troupe and the Hwa Chong Parents Support Group. The rhythmic drumbeats and energetic movements of the lions and dragons brought an atmosphere of excitement and ushered in good fortune for the year ahead.

Hwa Chong Parents Support Group perform a dragon dance. Studio Ardent/Xu Bowen

This was followed by the introduction of the God of Wealth mascot, who delighted the audience by throwing sweets at them, signifying delivering fortune, adding a lively, interactive element to the programme. Student representatives presented oranges to teachers, conveying respect and wishes of prosperity and gratitude for the year ahead. 

The concert continued in the College Section with a graceful dance performance by the Music and Dance Society (Chinese Dance division), showcasing both elegance and cultural heritage. A specially produced Chinese New Year video was then screened, highlighting festive traditions and the spirit of reunion. The audience was also treated to a dynamic performance by Weyoung, who energised the hall and drew enthusiastic applause.

MAD Chinese Dance members perform at Chinese New Year celebrations, striking a graceful pose. Studio Ardent/Wang Shihan

Adding to the celebratory mood was a gameshow segment that engaged students in friendly competition and tested their knowledge of Chinese New Year customs.

Following this, the Principal addressed the school, extending warm New Year wishes and encouraging students to begin the year with renewed determination and kindness. This was followed by a prize-giving ceremony for the CNY Classroom Decoration Competition, in which winning classes were presented Fairprice vouchers and other goodies for their enthusiastic participation and creativity.

The latter part of the concert featured a powerful Wushu performance, impressing the audience with their discipline and strength. A visually captivating Fish Lantern performance followed, illuminating the stage with vibrant colours and symbolising abundance. The celebration concluded with a performance by the Chinese New Year Organising Team that brought the entire programme to a spirited close.

Students move around holding illuminated fishes in a performance. Studio Ardent/Wang Shihan

Members of the CNY Organising Team perform in animal costumes. Studio Ardent/Wang Shihan

The concert ended at 10.30am, marking the conclusion of a memorable celebration. The Hwa Chong Publications Society, whose members write and edit all HC Insights articles, extends their most heartfelt and sincere Chinese New Year wishes to all our readers, and we wish everyone a brilliant year ahead!