Kids gather in Shekou for 'Trick or treat' fun

The familiar chant of "Trick or treat!" filled the air as nearly 60 families from different countries gathered Oct. 25 for a festive cross-cultural celebration at the Nanshan International Cultural Exchange & Service Center (NSIC) in Zhaoshang Subdistrict, Nanshan District. 

The event, titled "Happy Neighbor Visiting Day," was designed to foster exchange and build community ties, bringing together residents from nations including the U.S., France, the U.K., South Africa, Russia, South Korea, Japan, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Participants came dressed in diverse costumes, extending the festive atmosphere beyond the NSIC and into the adjacent Sea World through coordination with local merchants. 

The atmosphere was vibrant with youthful excitement, highlighting cultural synergy among the attendees. Spider-Man was seen sharing treats with pirates, while witches helped adjust the attire of superheroes, little angels mingled with girls wearing traditional Hanfu dresses, and toddlers dressed as tigers and dinosaurs were seen playing around the whole event. 

The celebration’s main activity was a spirited treasure challenge requiring children to search the NSIC for hidden orange props.

“I found an orange bottle cap!” and“Here is a hidden orange clip!” were among the excited cries as children raced to collect their "trophies." Ultimately, local Chinese participant Penny displayed sharp observation skills and courage, winning the most items and claiming the top prize: a pumpkin lamp. She was quick to share her excitement with her new international friends nearby.

 The highly anticipated trick-or-treating segment followed, with children divided into six groups and led by volunteers to visit surrounding storefronts. Merchants warmly welcomed the kids singing the traditional trick-or-treat song, offering candies and engaging in brief exchanges. By the end of the circuit, the children’s bags were brimming with sweets. 

Sunny, a German resident, was attending the "Happy Neighbor Visiting Day" for the second year. “Every year the activities have different surprises,” Sunny said, smiling.“The children look forward to coming every time, and they are especially happy to meet friends from different countries here.” 

As a key platform serving both Chinese and foreign residents, the NSIC aims to continually build bridges for diverse interaction. Organizers noted that the“Happy Neighbor Visiting Day” successfully deepened mutual understanding and friendship in a relaxed environment, thereby enhancing the sense of belonging and well-being within the international community. 

Photos courtesy of NSIC