International friends and local residents joyfully make yuanxiao together at the Lantern Festival celebration event in Shibei district. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

On Feb 12, Qingdao's Shibei district and Jiaozhou marked the Lantern Festival with a series of vibrant cultural activities, celebrating traditional Chinese customs and promoting cultural exchange.

In Shibei district, the Lantern Festival event at Haiyun Plaza featured a variety of performances, a yuanxiao (sweet rice dumpling) making competition, and lantern riddle guessing. The opening ceremony included dances and performances set to traditional Chinese music. The lantern riddle guessing game incorporated socialist core values and cultural pride, while the yuanxiao competition showcased both traditional and new flavors, such as seafood and fruit varieties. International friends joined the festivities, enhancing cultural exchange.

Crowds gather to enjoy the vibrant performances at the 2025 Yangko Dance Festival in Jiaozhou. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

In Jiaozhou, the 2025 Yangko Dance Festival saw over 60 performance teams and more than 1,100 performers. The local yangko dance, known for its lively and intricate movements, captivated audiences, incorporating a modern twist to attract a younger crowd.

International students taste yuanxiao, experiencing the sweet flavors of the Lantern Festival. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

At the Fangjing community in Jiaozhou, international students from countries like Afghanistan and Kyrgyzstan joined locals in making yuanxiao, creating paper lanterns, performing yangko dances, and guessing lantern riddles. Guided by community volunteers, the international participants learned about Chinese traditions and language, expressing their love for Chinese culture.

The activities helped to strengthen cultural ties and foster a sense of unity and pride among local residents and international friends.