The recreation team at Ron Smith Care Centre hosted a vibrant Chinese New Year celebration on 7 February, immersing residents in the rich traditions and customs of this special occasion.
As residents entered the recreation centre, they were greeted by the lively sounds of traditional Chinese music and stunning decorations – including Chinese calligraphy on the walls, elegant fans, lanterns and red-and-gold floral centrepieces.
Chinese New Year is a major festival celebrated by Chinese communities worldwide, typically lasting 15 days. This year, festivities began on 29 January and will conclude with the Lantern Festival on 12 February.
Marking the Year of the Snake, 2025 continues the 12-year cycle of the Chinese Zodiac, where each year is linked to an animal sign believed to influence personality traits.
“Residents and staff had fun consulting a zodiac chart to find their Chinese animal sign,” said Debbie Christen, the care centre’s recreational and training services facilitator.
“It sparked lots of conversations, with residents sharing their birth years and laughing over the personality traits associated with their signs.”
Adding to the festive spirit, each guest picked a card featuring a Chinese character representing qualities like love, wisdom, happiness and peace. Two lucky guests who drew the ‘double happiness’ symbol won special prizes.
The celebration continued with an exciting chopstick-and-popcorn competition. After a quick tutorial, participants practised using chopsticks before racing to transfer popcorn kernels into their bowls. “This was a fantastic activity that engaged the brain, encouraged fine motor skills, and, most importantly, brought plenty of laughter and cheers,” said Debbie.
Carol Murphy claimed victory in the resident category with an impressive 80 popcorn kernels, while special carer Letwin Mahlengwe won among staff with a score of 72. “It was wonderful to see how delighted residents were when they successfully used chopsticks – it gave them a real sense of accomplishment,” she adds.
Following the games, everyone enjoyed freshly made chicken and vegetable spring rolls, served with sweet chilli sauce, alongside a choice of jasmine tea, Five Roses or coffee. The spring rolls were a hit, offering a welcome change from the usual menu.
Residents Helmut Gschnaidtner and Esme Frenkel shared their appreciation, noting how much they and their fellow residents enjoyed the morning. “It was fascinating to learn about a different culture, and the activities brought people together,” said Helmut.
For Chinese residents George Lai and Josephine Kew, the celebration was especially meaningful. “It was a joy to share this part of our culture with everyone,” they said, expressing gratitude for the chance to celebrate Chinese New Year at the care centre.
Ron Smith Care Centre’s residents and staff enjoying the Chinese New Year Celebration. Top: Lucia Nkuna, Helmut Gschnaidtner and Connie Krϋger. Bottom: Isobel Kohl, Miriam Benjamin and Ria Milburn.
Ron Smith Care Centre’s residents and staff welcome in the Year of the Snake. Lucia Nkuna, Connie Krϋger and Letwin Mahlengwe, George Lai, Josephine Kew, Elizabeth Marshall and Carol Murphy.
Happy smiles from Simoné Botha and Irving Aremband as he reveals his ‘double happiness’ card.
