Residents welcome Lunar New Year

Residents at a care home in Melksham welcomed the Lunar New Year recently with an evening of celebration, where residents created a seven-metre dragon to mark the Year of the Horse.

Blenheim House began the evening with a traditional Dragon Dance using the resident-made dragon, which had been carefully crafted during arts and crafts sessions in the weeks leading up to the event.   

The events team and care staff joined together to showcase the residents’ work to families, friends and fellow residents, bringing a sense of culture and tradition into the home.

The evening continued with a 40-question quiz exploring the customs and traditions of Chinese New Year, a 15-day celebration that concludes with the Chinese Lantern Festival, symbolising family unity, new beginnings and the dispelling of darkness through light.   

Residents and guests also enjoyed a menu of chicken chow mein and sweet and sour vegetables, accompanied by wine, beer and soft drinks.

Fortune cookies and good luck charms were handed out to all in attendance, wishing guests happiness, prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead. The event provided an opportunity for residents and their loved ones to come together, learn about different cultures, and enjoy time socialising within the all-inclusive care home that is part of the award-winning Berkley Care Group.

Events Manager at Blenheim House, Chris Preston, said, “Last night’s Lunar New Year celebration was a wonderful opportunity for residents, families and our team to come together and experience something new. Seeing the seven-metre dragon created by our residents take centre stage was a real highlight of the evening.

“Events like this are so important at Blenheim as they bring families together, encourage social interaction, and provide a chance to learn about and celebrate different cultures within the home.”

Pictured: Blenheim House residents with the seven-foot dragon