Expats dive into festive fun in Shekou

A Series of activities were held over the weekend in Shekou for expats to feel the unique charm of traditional Chinese culture, just in time for the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday.

On Friday night, a song and dance party was jointly hosted by the Shekou Management and Service Center for Expats (Shekou MSCE) and the Peninsula of Dongjiaotou Community at the Lighthouse Square.

Sharon and Don Rechtman, members of the band “Bug and Bear,” graced the stage with their original compositions “The Summer of Childhood” and “A Bird Will Sing.” Following their solo performances, they sang a song called “In March Azaleas Bloom All Over the Mountain” together.

The evening was further enriched by the soulful vocals of Mahmoud from Egypt, who serenaded the audience with the Arabic melody “Ya Lily Ya Ainy,” evoking the mystique of the Middle East. Angelina from Belarus and Natalia from Ukraine showcased a graceful “Yoga Flow” performance, adding a touch of elegance to the event.

On Saturday, the Shekou MSCE hosted a “Handmade Mid-Autumn Fish-shaped Lantern Class,” drawing the participation of nearly 30 foreign residents.

The workshop provided insights into the origins and significance of the Mid-Autumn Festival in Chinese culture, while attendees learned the art of crafting fish-shaped lanterns — a symbol of good fortune. With meticulous care, they affixed “fish scales,” assembled “fish bodies,” and installed “fish lights,” all in the spirit of conveying their wishes for good luck and prosperity.

Sarah (R) and Ryan from the U.S. showcase the handmade lanterns they created together at an event hosted by the Shekou Management and Service Center for Expats (Shekou MSCE) on Saturday. Photos by courtesy of Shekou MSCE

Sarah (R) and Ryan from the U.S. make lanterns to celebrate upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival.

Expats who attend the handmade Mid-Autumn Fish-shaped Lantern Class show their works.

Expats attend the handmade Mid-Autumn Fish-shaped Lantern Class hosted by Shekou MSCE.

Expats attend the handmade Mid-Autumn Fish-shaped Lantern Class hosted by Shekou MSCE.

Expats learn how to make a lantern. 

An expat learns how to make a fish-shaped lantern.