Feature: American students experiencing Chinese tradition, culture

CHICAGO, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Ahead of the Chinese Lunar New Year, 55 U.S. students and their teachers from the Niles North High School in the northern suburbs of Chicago came to the Chinese Consulate General in Chicago on Friday for an in-person experience of Chinese tradition and culture, and celebration of the Chinese Year of the Dragon.

Despite the chilly weather outside, the hall of the consulate general, decorated with Chinese knots and firecracker pendants, was full of warmth. After watching erhu, guzheng and martial arts performances, students gave their Chinese New Year greetings by reciting a self-edited "Wish You All a Happy New Year" and singing "Gong Xi Gong Xi."