On October 25, the 3rd Clifford Estates International Neighborhood Festival concluded at the European-style Square of Clifford Wonderview and Clifford Square, bringing together residents from diverse cultural backgrounds for a day of sports, art, and cross-cultural dialogue.
With the 15th National Games of China approaching, the festival featured special National Games-themed buses that served as a mobile hub of activity. The buses were divided into three interactive zones—a National Games Museum Exhibition, a Pop-up Store, and a Sports Challenge Arena—drawing enthusiastic participation from both Chinese and international attendees.
British content creator Billy shared his excitement after visiting the bus: "I was really excited to come here today to this bus exhibiting the China National Games because I really enjoy fitness myself." He added, "Initiatives like this are fantastic because they encourage everyone to try sports, regardless of age or fitness level."
The festival also featured a dedicated international stage that blended Chinese and Western cultural elements, presenting a series of captivating performances including live band acts, street dance, magic shows, Cantonese opera, and musical pieces performed on the gaohu and pipa.
Alina Ovsiienko, a vlogger from Ukraine, praised the lively and inclusive atmosphere. "I think the atmosphere is just fantastic because I see so many friendly people from other countries and from China, all together in one place, having a great time," she said. Reflecting on the role of sports, she added, "In Ukraine, people love sports. It unites us and keeps us healthy."
A creative bazaar with over 15 themed booths offered hands-on experiences in art co-creation, intangible cultural heritage, and live graffiti. Serbian artist Katarina Zivotic, who led one of the art workshops, explained her approach: "I use watercolors and markers—it's a mixed technique. I wanted to present something about China, combined with Western traditions." Having previously run her own art brand in Serbia, she now organizes creative workshops in Guangzhou. "It is important for kids to feel free to express themselves and explore their creativity," she emphasized.
Notably, the Clifford International Neighborhood in Panyu District is one of the first "International Community Information Service Centers" under the INFO Guangdong platform, which provides tailored services and cultural experiences to support expatriates' integration into local life.
Billy also spoke highly of the INFO Guangdong guidebook: "This handy little book is everywhere—in Clifford Estates, at Baiyun Airport, in hotels. The information is so useful: navigation, facilitation, and outreach. Everything you might need to know as a foreign expatriate in Guangdong is included."
The festival not only strengthened community bonds but also highlighted Guangzhou's ongoing efforts to build a multicultural and inclusive urban environment, where sports and art serve as universal languages connecting people across cultures.
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