Chongqing-From December 5th to 6th, the Sichuan International Studies University (SISU) 2025 International Culture Festival, themed "Culture Without Borders, Dreams Come Together," kicked off. Bathed in golden sunlight and adorned with a carpet of ginkgo leaves, over 1,000 teachers and students from more than 40 countries gathered at the grand event, joining a symphony of civilizations that blends tradition and modernity while connecting China with the world.

Attendees of the SISU International Culture Festival (photo provided by SISU)

This year’s International Culture Festival presented a splendid cultural feast for the entire university community. It attracted officials from consulates general in Chengdu and Chongqing, including those from Belarus, Hungary, Italy, Vietnam, Myanmar, Australia, and Germany. The festival was thoughtfully structured around three core sections:  performances, cultural exhibitions of different countries, and video screenings, offering a panoramic display of cultural diversity and innovative vitality. Building on tradition, there were many creative elements, including an AI story creation contest, interactive engagements with overseas partner universities, and collaborations with local districts and counties in Chongqing.

In the performance area, a series of thematic cultural programs captivated the audience. Teachers and students from various countries showcased the vibrancy of global cultures and the spirited demeanor of youth through dances, music, and theatrical performances that blended ethnic traditions with modern aesthetics, fostering an atmosphere of harmony and resonance.

Students lined up to experience the traditional game (photo provided by SISU)

In the national culture exhibition area, 30 themed booths organized by different departments transformed the venue into a miniature "global cultural corridor" showcasing countries such as Germany, Belarus, Russia, France, Togo, New Zealand, and Morocco. The exhibition also included a special showcase of Chinese intangible cultural heritage crafts. Paired with Chinese and international student guides, the booths offered immersive experiences of diverse customs and traditions through artifacts, attire, cuisine, and interactive games.

The festival’s innovative highlights were fully showcased. The video screening area featured outstanding works from the "My Story, My Country" AI Creative Video Contest, demonstrating the deep integration of technology and humanities. Concurrent screenings of selected films from the Chongqing Youth Film Festival and promotional videos from local districts and counties bridged international perspectives with local sentiments, vividly reflecting the vision of "regional collaboration."

More than just a comprehensive cultural experience, this International Culture Festival served as a profound practice of cross-cultural dialogue. By combining traditional displays with digital innovation, it vividly embodied the Global Civilization Initiative, providing a broad platform for Chinese and international youth to deepen exchanges and jointly shape the future. One student commented, "Events like this remind us that cultural exchange isn’t just about observation—it’s about participation, empathy, and growing together in an interconnected world."