Residents at Cramlington House celebrated Chinese New Year with a day full of activities, decorations and traditional food. The dining room was decorated with lanterns, banners and a handmade dragon crafted by the residents, creating a festive and inviting setting.
The celebration included trying out traditional Chinese dishes like noodles and spring rolls, with residents even giving chopsticks a go. The meal sparked conversations about different cultures, travel memories and food traditions.
Our Wellbeing Champion at Cramlington House said: “Events like Chinese New Year introduce residents to new experiences and ideas while also bringing people together. It’s wonderful to see how something as simple as a shared meal can inspire curiosity and connection.”
A handmade dragon, created using colourful hand-shaped cutouts, symbolised the spirit of creativity and teamwork. The residents also learned about the significance of the Year of the Snake, which led to discussions about Chinese culture and zodiac signs.
This type of event encourages engagement, social interaction and sensory experiences that are important for mental wellbeing. As one resident said, “I didn’t think I’d manage the chopsticks, but I surprised myself.” These celebrations demonstrate how meaningful and enriching shared experiences can be.