The Year of the Rat begins Jan. 25.

Chinese New Year is a traditional holiday celebrated at the turn of the Chinese calendar, commemorating the first day of spring.

It is also the time of the year for family reunion.

“Missouri State has many Chinese students, faculty and staff on campus who might not be able to celebrate this tradition with their families overseas,” said Peng Zhang, business instruction specialist in the office of research and economic development and China programs.

To bring a piece of home to these students, faculty and staff, the MSU office of China programs and the modern and classical languages department will host a celebration on campus with a series of events beginning Jan. 29.

“Celebrating Chinese New Year on campus can help them feel like they are home with their families by honoring and recognizing their culture and traditions,” Zhang said.

Chinese New Year celebration week

Community members are invited to a series of Chinese cultural activities from Jan. 29-31 in Siceluff 124. The activities will immerse attendees in different aspects of Chinese culture. They are free and open to the public.

Jan. 29

• Chinese New Year Culture Presentation, 11 a.m.
• Traditional Chinese Dance Showcase, noon.
• Traditional Chinese Instrument Demonstration, 12:30 p.m.
• Chinese Porcelain Workshop, 1 p.m.

Jan. 30

• Tai Chi Workshop and Performance, 10 a.m.
• Traditional Chinese Instrument and Dance Showcase, 11 a.m.
• Chinese Tea Workshop and Tasting, 12:30 p.m.
• Chinese Painting Workshop, 2 p.m.

Jan. 31

• Chinese Cuisine Presentation, 10 a.m.
• Chinese Dumpling Workshop, noon.

Chinese New Year banquet

The celebration wraps up Feb. 1 with the Chinese New Year banquet and show hosted by Chinese Students and Scholars Association. Dinner begins at 5:30 p.m. in the PSU Ballroom, followed by the show at 7 p.m. in the PSU Theater. Tickets are $15 and are available in Carrington 210, the PSU and Glass Hall.