On the afternoon of November 23, Xiamen University inaugurated the 12th "Chinese Cultural Gala" Cultural Festival at its Xiang’an Campus. The event was hosted by Xiamen University and organized by the Xiang’an Campus Administrative Committee, the Center for Aesthetic and General Education, and the College of International Chinese Education/College of Overseas Education.

This year’s festival, themed “Carrying Forward the Spirit of Tan Kah Kee, Writing a New Chapter of the Silk Road,” aimed to implement the key messages of President Xi Jinping's congratulatory letter to the 2024 World Chinese Language Conference. It sought to inherit and promote the spirit of Tan Kah Kee, showcase traditional Chinese culture alongside diverse world cultures, and foster intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding, contributing to the harmonious development of global civilization.

The event was graced by distinguished guests, including Zhao Lingshan, Vice Chairman and Secretary General of Chinese International Education Foundation, Xiamen University Vice President Shi Dalin, and former Vice President of Xiamen University and Vice Chairman of the Alumni Association, Zhan Xinli.

Liu Junjie, Deputy Director of the Xiang’an Campus Administrative Committee, highlighted in his speech that the "Chinese Cultural Gala" Cultural Festival has become a signature international event of Xiamen University. It is a vital initiative to deepen cultural exchange and mutual learning while promoting the global reach of Chinese culture. Over its 12-year history, the festival has continuously enriched its content and innovated its format, effectively fostering interactions and mutual appreciation between Chinese and international students, enhancing the understanding of traditional Chinese culture, telling China's story, and amplifying its voice.

The event officially began with a traditional lion dance ceremony performed by the performers. A spectacular dragon and lion dance show followed, opening the cultural gala. The performers mesmerized the audience with their skillful renditions of Chinese songs, dances, and traditional arts, igniting a vibrant atmosphere on-site.

A touching highlight of the event was the participation of student representatives from five countries who had organized the first through eleventh editions of "Chinese Cultural Gala." Their spirited exclamation, "We’re back for Chinese Cultural Gala!" brought the celebration to its peak.

This year’s festival offered unique cultural experiences, enabling domestic and international faculty and students to immerse themselves in the richness of Chinese culture while providing a platform for meaningful interaction. Attendees from different nations and regions shared their cultural insights, fostering mutual understanding and friendship.

At the venue, twelve exhibitions and interactive activities showcased China’s intangible cultural heritage, drawing enthusiastic participation. Visitors engaged in a variety of traditional cultural experiences that left them deeply impressed.

The global culture exhibition booth brought together international students from 13 countries, including Mexico, Vietnam, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Pakistan, Russia, Myanmar, Nigeria, Egypt, Cameroon, and Ghana. Through traditional attire, dance, music, games, cuisine, and interactive quizzes, they shared the vibrant cultures of their respective nations, offering attendees a closer look at the beauty of diverse global traditions.

The enriching cultural activities left participants deeply satisfied. Many international students and alumni expressed their enjoyment of the event. Ge Qi, a Chinese language student from Poland, remarked: “Chinese Cultural Gala is a grand event with numerous cultural experiences. For me, the cultural gala performance was the most unforgettable part, and I also appreciated the opportunity to learn about the languages and cultures of other countries. It was all fantastic and incredibly engaging!”

The festival garnered significant attention from the public and media, amassing over 1.1292 million views online, with more than 21,000 interactions, including likes, comments, and shares.

From traditional calligraphy and painting to creative paper art fashion shows and puppet-making workshops, every segment of the event captivated the audience, allowing them to experience the charm of traditional Chinese culture.

Written by：Qu Mingyue

Image by：Overseas Education College faculty and students

Reviewed by：Jiang Li, Xiao Ningyao

Editted by：Yang Jiaqi

Source：Chinese International Education College/ Overseas Education College