Ireland China Education College (ICEC) today hosts its 2026 Chinese New Year Gala at Loreto Secondary School, Bray, celebrating the Year of the Fire Horse with a vibrant cross-cultural programme of music, dance, drama, and student performance. Now recognised as the largest Chinese New Year celebration in the local area
Now firmly established as the largest Chinese New Year celebration in the local area, the gala continues to grow, with attendance surpassing last year's figure of more than 200 guests. The event showcased a vibrant programme of music, dance, drama and student performances, reflecting the college's expanding role in language education and cross-cultural engagement.
The celebration brought together students, families, educators, artists and community leaders, highlighting ICEC's work in providing Mandarin language classes, Transition Year Chinese programmes, Leaving Certificate Chinese support and a variety of cultural arts initiatives.
Councillor Melanie Corrigan, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, officially opened the gala and highlighted the strong ties in the community that have been forged from the gala.
“It is a pleasure to see such a strong community celebration of culture and education here in Bray,” she said.
"Events like this bring people together, encourage cultural understanding, and highlight the positive diversity that continues to strengthen County Wicklow.”
“ICEC’s work in language learning, arts, and cultural exchange reflects the values we promote locally – inclusion, participation, and creativity. Supporting opportunities like this helps build real bridges between communities,” she added.
A diverse stage programme featured student choral performances, a Chinese New Year–themed drama and a traditional Hulusi solo, while guest musicians from Galway delivered a standout cross-cultural performance blending Chinese Erhu with electric guitar.
Students from Dublin’s St Columba’s College and Educate Together Secondary School in Wicklow performed flute, piano and harp duets, while lucky draw presentations rounded out the evening.
Dr Linda Zhao, principal of ICEC, said the gala reflects the college’s broader mission to link education, culture and community.
“We are proud to support young people’s global learning and to work with local schools and communities in expanding access to Chinese language and cultural education,” she said.
Looking ahead, Dr Zhao said the college aims to deepen cooperation with more Irish primary and secondary schools.
“When schools, families and community organisations work together, cultural education becomes a shared experience,” she said. “That partnership model is central to ICEC’s vision for the future.”