When people ask me what it feels like to celebrate Chinese New Year in China for the first time, I find myself lost for words — because there is simply too much. As a student from Bangladesh pursuing my bachelor's degree at Wuxi University of Technology, I had no idea that this city would give me one of the most unforgettable nights of my life.
A student far from home
Moving to Wuxi from Bangladesh was already an adventure in itself. A new country, a new language, a new culture — everything was fresh and exciting. But nothing quite prepared me for the magic of welcoming Chinese New Year in this remarkable city. For many international students like me, the holidays can feel a little distant from home. Wuxi, however, had other plans. It wrapped me in its warmth and made sure I felt every bit of the celebration.
The sky comes alive — fireworks over Wuxi
The highlight of my Chinese New Year experience was without question the fireworks. I had seen fireworks before, but nothing on this scale. As midnight approached, the sky above Wuxi transformed into a breathtaking canvas of color, light, and sound. Explosions of gold, red, and silver lit up the horizon in every direction. The reflections dancing on the water made it feel almost surreal — like the entire city was celebrating together as one.
Thousands of miles from Bangladesh, in the heart of China, Wuxi made me feel at home.
Sky lanterns — wishes that float
One of the most moving moments of the entire experience was releasing a sky lantern into the night. Watching that glowing balloon rise slowly above the rooftops, carrying my hopes and wishes for the year ahead, was truly a spiritual moment. It is the kind of moment you don't capture fully in a photo — you carry it in your heart.
Wuxi through a student's eyes
Living and studying in Wuxi has already shown me that this city is far more than just a place on a map. It is a city that honors its past while embracing the future. It is a place where ancient culture and modern energy coexist beautifully. And for an international student like me, it is a place that makes you feel seen, welcomed, and inspired.
My first Chinese New Year in Wuxi was not just a celebration — it was a memory I will carry with me for the rest of my life. It reminded me why I chose to come here, why I chose to chase my dreams across oceans, and why Wuxi will always hold a special place in my story.
A message of gratitude
To the people and the city of Wuxi — thank you. Thank you for the fireworks that lit up my sky. Thank you for the lanterns that carried my wishes. Thank you for the festivals that made me feel less far from home. And thank you for reminding me that the world, no matter how big, has a way of making you feel like you belong.
I came to Wuxi as a student. But this city has taught me more than any classroom ever could.
Here's to many more New Years in this wonderful city.
The author, hailing from Bangladesh, is a bachelor's student at Wuxi University of Technology.
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