"Gong hei fat choi" is a Mandarin phrase wishing people a happy new year.

Students, faculty and community members alike spoke and heard the phrase Monday at a Chinese New Year celebration in the Blue Ridge Ballroom of the Blue Ridge Ballroom, hosted by the Chinese Culture Club.

Unlike the Western new year, the Chinese New Year follows the lunar calendar.

"The official name of the holiday is 'Spring Festival,' which celebrates the arrival of spring," said Dr. Wendy Xie, professor of beginning and intermediate Chinese. "That is why it falls on the end of January and beginning of February."

The celebration typically lasts for one week.

Upon arrival at Monday's celebration, students were greeted by the red and gold decorations covering the walls. Both colors represent prosperity and good luck in the new year.

New China Buffet catered a meal of lo-mein noodles, fried rice and spring rolls and the event featured face-painting and traditional Chinese games as well.

Although many left after enjoying their meal, others stayed to watch the performances, as students from a beginning Chinese class led attendees in a traditional New Year song.

"It's a good experience to attend events like these," said freshman undecided major Lisa Myers, who performed with the Beginning Chinese students. "Its always good to learn about other cultures. Plus, who doesn't like a party?"

Following the song were presentations from various community members, including poetry readings, song and dance numbers and a Kung-Fu demonstration by the Blue Ridge Kung-Fu Arnis academy.

Sophomore international business major Leah Chan, secretary of the Chinese Culture Club, said events like the Chinese New Year Celebration "brings students together."

"I like seeing everybody come together - not just for the free food but to watch the majority of the performances and meet people they don't even know," she said. "It's a way for them to learn about the culture."

Story: CASEY SUGLIA, Lifestyles Reporter