Ice Sculptures, Sugar Paintings, and Dumplings: Winter Games Delegations Embrace Heritage
Nearly 20 athletes and officials from Mongolia, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, and other countries swapped skates for sugar brushes this week at a cultural showcase tied to the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin. Held at a China Media Group studio within the Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Art Expo Park, the event blended sports diplomacy with hands-on exploration of Northeast China’s traditions.
A spirited Yangge dance performance – complete with twirling ribbons and thunderous drumming – kicked off festivities, with several international guests enthusiastically joining the choreography. The rhythmic energy set the tone for immersive workshops on ice engraving, wheat straw art, and intricate paper cutting.
‘Food diplomacy’ took center stage as participants sampled frozen pears and persimmons while shaping Yuanxiao dumplings, a Lantern Festival favorite. The cultural exchange coincides with the February 7-14 Winter Asiad, underscoring how major sporting events increasingly serve as bridges for cross-border understanding.
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Winter Asiad players enjoy Chinese cultural heritage in NE China
cgtn.com
