On the evening of Dec 31, Huazhong Agricultural University (HZAU) hosted the 2026 "Harmony in Spring" festival. Despite a gentle winter rain, the campus was illuminated with artistic light installations as thousands of faculty and students gathered to celebrate the New Year through a dynamic mix of creativity, tradition, and science.
The festivities began at 8:00 PM with a grand parade. Diverse student groups displayed the university's unique spirit, such as the College of Animal Sciences & Technology/College of Veterinary Medicine animating Year of the Horse motifs, and international students from Pakistan, Egypt, and Rwanda performing in traditional attire. On the main stage, the energy was high with over 20 performances, from martial arts and rock music to elegant ethnic dances, culminating in a communal sing-along.
The "creative night" section allowed participants to engage with cultural heritage, offering hands-on experiences in calligraphy, silk weaving, and shadow puppetry. Simultaneously, "academic fun" booths turned complex research into interactive experiences. Visitors sampled "Huamoxiang" black rice desserts and sweet corn snacks from the President Yan Jianbing's genomic research, linking the lab to the dining table.
As midnight approached, Party secretary of HZAU Yao Jianglin and President Yan led a massive countdown. After a spectacular fireworks display, Yan delivered a New Year's address, honoring the "historic progress" of 2025 and encouraging the HZAU community to embrace 2026 with curiosity and confidence. The celebration concluded in the early hours of New Year's Day with a chorus of "I Love You, China", marking a spirited start to the year.

Students bring ancient stories to life at the shadow puppet workshop. [Photo/news.hzau.edu.cn]

International students join a parade in their traditional festive attire. [Photo/news.hzau.edu.cn]

Students write traditional blessings for the New Year. [Photo/news.hzau.edu.cn]