（Produced by Zeng Ping)Across cultures, the New Year is widely associated with family reunions and a sense of togetherness. This year, three foreigners from South Africa, Ghana, and the United Kingdom celebrated the New Year in Nanning, Guangxi, sharing their experiences of welcoming the New Year while living abroad in China.

Liam, from South Africa, noted that New Year celebrations in China differ from those in his home country. In South Africa, the holiday is typically marked by a family gathering followed by celebrations with friends. In China, although he is far from his family, he said the festive atmosphere created by spending time with friends offered a different but equally meaningful sense of togetherness.

Victor, from Ghana, said that regardless of location, the essence of the New Year remains rooted in family and reunion.

David, from the United Kingdom, has lived in China for many years. He said he particularly appreciates the strong emphasis on family bonds and collective celebration during the Chinese New Year. In Nanning, a rapidly developing city, he observed a combination of modern urban life and enduring traditional customs.

While their cultural backgrounds and ways of celebrating differ, the shared sense of anticipation was evident as the countdown began and fireworks lit up the night sky. Their New Year wishes — including health, success, and new opportunities — reflected common hopes for the year ahead.