CIBU Hosts 2024 International Chinese Language Day Celebrations

On May 8, 2024, the Confucius Institute at Boğaziçi University (CIBU) came alive with the vibrant celebrations of International Chinese Language Day. This year's event was extra special as it also marked the 15th anniversary of CIBU and the 30th anniversary of the sister city relationship between Shanghai and Istanbul. The day was filled with excitement, joy, and a rich display of Chinese culture, receiving an enthusiastic response from everyone present.

The event kicked off with the exhibition of stunning, award-winning artworks from the "Chinese Ink in Istanbul" calligraphy and painting competition. These masterpieces captivated the audience, showcasing the beauty and depth of Chinese art.

The celebration was packed with lively and colorful performances. The crowd was thrilled by the dynamic dragon and lion dances, a unique fusion performance combining Tai Chi, guzheng music, and calligraphy, and a fabulous fashion show featuring traditional Chinese costumes from various dynasties. Each performance brought the essence of Chinese culture to life, fascinating everyone present.

But the fun didn’t stop there! Attendees also got hands-on with a variety of engaging cultural activities. They tried their hand at Chinese calligraphy, played with diabolos (Chinese yo-yos), and had a blast kicking shuttlecocks. These interactive experiences added an extra layer of enjoyment and allowed everyone to immerse themselves in the richness of Chinese traditions.

The celebration was a huge hit, showcasing the strong bond between China and Turkey and CIBU's dedication to cultural exchange and understanding. We are grateful to everyone who joined us and made this day unforgettable.