Intl students engage in cultural carnival in Shanghai

International students enjoy Chinese face-changing performances. [Photo/WeChat ID: shhongkou]

A cultural carnival at Shanghai International Studies University attracted international students who participated as cultural ambassadors, sharing their unique traditions and customs.

The event kicked off with a colorful parade of international students dressed in traditional attire, proudly carrying their national flags. Through performances, Q&A sessions, and themed exhibits, they offered local residents a glimpse into their diverse cultures and heritage.

Artem Petrosian, a senior student from Armenia, captivated the audience with a presentation on Armenia's Water-Splashing Festival, highlighting the country's geography, cultural icons, and traditions. He emphasized the richness that cultural exchange brings and hoped to inspire more interest in Armenia.

Artem Petrosian introduces the culture of Armenia to local residents. [Photo/WeChat ID: shhongkou]

At the Vietnam booth, Thi Thao Tran and her peers engaged visitors with 40 interactive questions about Vietnam, from its capital to its unique New Year traditions. They handed out traditional Vietnamese gifts like coffee keychains and red envelopes, while also exchanging souvenirs with students from other countries.

Syton Peter Chawinga from Malawi invited a resident to try playing an African drum, noting its rhythms were similar to traditional Chinese instruments.

The event's cultural performances were a major highlight. Attendees enjoyed solo songs from Tajikistan, dialect songs from Cameroon, candle dances from Thailand, and violin solos from Armenia. Many paused to take photos, while fashion shows featuring French and Egyptian styles displayed diverse aesthetics and traditions.

Additionally, the gala showcased traditional Chinese arts, including the dramatic face-changing performance known as Bianlian, a Xinjiang solo dance, and an ethnic dance, providing international students and residents with a vivid experience of China's artistic heritage.

International students explore sugar painting, a part of China's intangible cultural heritage. [Photo/WeChat ID: shhongkou]