"The timing of nature and human affairs urges the day; the winter solstice brings the sun and spring returns." To allow international exchange students, who are far from home, to experience the unique charm of the Chinese traditional festival, On 13th December, Global Engagement Office and the Confucius Institute, organized a special dumpling-making party for the winter solstice.

At the beginning of the event, Professor Alain Chong, Vice Provost for Global Engagement and Partnerships at University Nottingham Ningbo China, delivered an opening speech. Professor Alain Chong shared with exchange students "The winter solstice is an important solar term in China that carries profound cultural connotations. On this special day, we gather together in hopes that you can feel the warmth and friendliness of the Chinese people through making dumplings and learning about traditional culture. I wish you a warm and unforgettable winter solstice in this foreign land, and I look forward to you becoming friendly ambassadors for cultural exchange between our countries."

The dumpling-making segment was truly delightful. The teachers demonstrated the steps of making dumplings, quickly turning dough into plump dumpling wrappers, and after adding the filling and pinching them, beautiful dumplings took shape. The exchange students eagerly began to make their own, with a student named Lina from Spain "This is so fun; it feels like making a work of art!" Everyone sat together, filled with laughter and joy. After much effort, a variety of creatively shaped dumplings filled the platters.

During the competition for the "Best Creative Dumpling" and the "Most Beautiful Dumpling," the competition was particularly fierce, with the winning group beaming with pride as they received their prizes.

During the traditional culture interactive quiz segment, the exchange students were enthusiastic and eager to answer. The three students who answered the fastest and most accurately were invited to the stage to receive small prizes. Through the quiz and explanations, the exchange students gained a deeper understanding of Chinese culture.

During the buffet dinner, everyone enjoyed the food while sharing their dumpling-making experiences. At that moment, a special segment began—finding the lucky dumpling. Katie, an exchange student from UK excitedly discovered that she had eaten the lucky dumpling, the room erupted with applause and cheers. This small lucky dumpling seemed to symbolize the beauty of cultural fusion, drawing everyone closer together in laughter.

This winter solstice event not only allowed exchange students to experience traditional Chinese customs but also planted the seeds of cultural exchange in their hearts. It is believed that in the days to come, they will carry these beautiful memories and become active promoters of cultural exchange between China and their home countries, helping the world to better understand the richness and depth of Chinese culture.