Monaco marked the Chinese New Year on 11th February with an evening of cultural celebration organised by the Monegasque association Monaco-Chine, with the support of the Embassy of Monaco in China.

Around one hundred guests gathered for the occasion, among them diplomatic representatives from both Monaco and China — a reflection of the bilateral ties between the two countries, whose 30th anniversary of relations was celebrated in 2025.

The evening marked the arrival of the Year of the Fire Horse, a symbol of dynamism, creative energy and action in the Chinese calendar, with traditional culture taking centre stage throughout. Guests were treated to lion dances, calligraphy demonstrations and live Guzheng — the Chinese zither — over a dinner prepared with Asian flavours.

A surprise from Monaco’s classrooms

The highlight of the evening, however, came from an unexpected quarter. More than 90 students currently studying Mandarin at the Collège Charles III and the Lycée Albert I joined the celebrations, performing a series of carefully prepared Chinese songs and dances for the assembled guests.

Ranging from sixth-form beginners to final-year students, the young performers delivered fan dances, a Tai Chi demonstration and a series of contemporary tableaux drawn from Chinese cultural tradition — all rehearsed and guided by their teachers.

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Photo credit: Government Communications Department