???????Chinese embassy in the U.S. on Saturday marked the United Nations Chinese Language Day, which fell on April 20, by staging intimate Chinese cultural activities.

People from all walks of life and coming far and wide gathered in the embassy and immersed in the Chinese calligraphy, painting, ribbon dance and play diabolo, among other intersection activities.
Tearra and her daughter Cianna were practicing their Chinese calligraphy, Cianna is learning Chinese at school. 
"Our world is expanding and especially in America and they can learn multiple languages and I think Chinese is definitely growing and very important to learn," said Tearra. 
These students came all the way from New York dressed in Tang (618-907) and other Dynastic traditional costumes they have been learning Chinese for quite a while now- all agree it's challenging but they say stick with it.
"Don't be intimidated by it - I feel like everyone when I say I learn Chinese they are oh my gosh you must be smart - I'm not that smart I'm just a hard worker," said Ross Yablans, a student of Chinese. 
For students, learning Chinese culture alongside the language is vital to say- a message echoed by Chinese officials here -who are encouraging more Americans to take up Chinese after President Xi Jinping's recent invitation to come and study in China.
"President Xi announced that China is ready to invite 50,000 young Americans to China on exchange and study programs in the next five years," said Shen Xuesong, Minister Counselor at Chinese Embassy in the United States.
U.S. foreign language experts agree that more Americans should take up the challenge and reap the rewards of an enriching and ancient language that is more and more vital in today's competitive commercial world.
"I just want to emphasize the fact of how bright that future will be for the students in this room who are learning Mandarin. It is an incredible investment in your future," said Martha G. Abbott, Executive Director of American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Language. 
Learning a language helps break down communication barriers and build cultural bridges- something we all need more of in today's world and in the future.