'Hello APEC · Exploring Russia' market brings Slavic culture to Shekou

Video by Lin Jianping

A cultural market blending food, music, art and interactive activities was held in Shekou Sunday afternoon, offering local and expat residents an immersive Russian cultural experience.

Performers lead visitors in a traditional circle dance during the “Hello APEC · Shekou Cultural Market — Exploring Russia” event in Shekou on Sunday. Photos courtesy of Shekou MSCE

The cultural market, titled “Hello APEC · Shekou Cultural Market — Exploring Russia,” was organized by the Shekou Management and Service Center for Expats (Shekou MSCE) to align with the APEC theme of “Building an Asia‑Pacific Community to Prosper Together.” The 33rd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting is scheduled to be held in Shenzhen in November.

The one-day market on Shekou Fishing Street brought authentic Slavic elements to the neighborhood through cuisine, performances, art and hands-on activities.

Visitors sample Russian food and mingle at stalls during the “Hello APEC · Shekou Cultural Market — Exploring Russia” event in Shekou.

The Russian food zone proved to be one of the biggest draws. A well-known senior Russian pastry chef, identified as Nadezda, joined other vendors to serve freshly baked breads, thin pancakes (blini) and a range of traditional desserts. The aroma of wheat and milk attracted steady crowds, and visitors praised the authentic flavors that offered a genuine taste of Russia.

Russian singer and host Angela (L) performs for visitors during the event.  

Music and performance animated the market. Angela, a singer from Russia who also hosted the event, delivered heartfelt renditions of classics such as "Катюша” and “Подмосковные вечера,” drawing both Chinese and foreign residents to the stage. Many stopped to listen and take photos with her, turning the performance area into a lively, interactive gathering point.

To balance indulgence with activity, Russian karate experts led participatory sports sessions, and the traditional Khorovod circle dance encouraged large groups to join hands and move together to the music. Laughter and cheers rippled across the venue as participants — locals and internationals alike — immersed themselves in the festival's customs.

A mother and son pose for photos at a decorative installation inspired by Moscow's Red Square during the event. 

Distinctive Russian-themed installations provided striking backdrops and quickly became favorite photo spots, with some setups evoking scenes reminiscent of Moscow’s Red Square. An APEC Knowledge Zone offered lively explanations and interactive quizzes about Asia-Pacific economic cooperation.

A bustling flea market complemented the cultural offerings: residents traded books, clothing, accessories and other secondhand items, giving pre-owned goods new life and promoting environmental awareness through social exchange. The market overall offered a vivid, multi-sensory introduction to Russian culture and served as a practical platform for intercultural exchange in Shekou.

Visitors explore the Russian cultural market during the “Hello APEC · Shekou Cultural Market — Exploring Russia” event in Shekou.

Participants voiced strong approval. Angela said, “I had a wonderful time today. Thank you so much for inviting me to sing and host this event. It was a great pleasure to interact with everyone and bring energy to the scene.” Xander, from Iran, praised the Russian art exhibits and noted, “I bought a piece of Russian-style tiramisu; it’s really sweet. I’m looking forward to joining your next event.” Russian vendor Ellie said she enjoyed meeting many interested visitors and new friends, while Nadezda, who attended with her family, was pleased to see her desserts warmly received despite a busy day.

Organizers said the event aimed to deepen cross-cultural understanding and cultivate a more open, diverse cultural atmosphere in Shenzhen by presenting Russian culture through taste, sight, sound and participation.