#Ethiopia #Spring Festival #Addis Ababa #Jinhua Culture #UNECA

Jinhua's Cultural Showcase at the UN Economic Commission for Africa

On February 12, 2026, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) in Addis Ababa became a cultural crossroads as the Jinhua Municipal Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television, and Tourism held a remarkable showcase titled "A New Spring, A Soaring Journey." This event was not just a presentation; it was an invitation to experience the rich tapestry of Jinhua's traditional arts, aimed at fostering connections and engaging in cultural exchange.

A Celebration of Heritage

The cultural showcase was organized into three dynamic segments that highlighted various aspects of Jinhua’s artistic heritage. Attendees were treated to a vibrant display of traditional crafts, folk art, and performing arts, each serving to illuminate the rich cultural identity of Jinhua.

Handcrafted Wonders

The first section, "Handcrafted Wonders," featured exquisite craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations. Demonstrations included:

• - Dongyang wood carving, known for its intricate designs and skilled artisans.
• - Pujiang paper-cutting, a delightful expression of creativity, which transforms simple paper into decorative art.
• - Yongkang tin carving, showcasing the seamless blend of tradition and artistry.
• - Wuzhou kiln ceramics, celebrated for its beautiful glazes and craftsmanship.

These crafts tell the stories of Jinhua's history and culture, engaging the audience in a visual narrative of tradition.

Golden Harvest Festivities

Next, the segment titled "Golden Harvest Festivities" provided a glimpse into the cultural expressions associated with the Chinese Spring Festival. Highlights included:

• - Dongyang needle-pierced boneless lanterns, a symbol of hope and celebration.
• - Woodblock New Year prints, bringing to life the vivid traditions of welcoming a prosperous new year.
• - Lanxi kites, which not only mesmerized but also underscored the joy of artistic flying during cultural celebrations.

This segment drew connections between Jinhua’s seasonal festivals and the broader themes of renewal and celebration in life.

Wuzhou Rhythms: China–Africa Ties

The final section, "Wuzhou Rhythms China–Africa Ties," was a testament to the shared values and traditions through performing arts. Carefully curated displays of Wu opera costumes dazzled audiences, while live performances provided an immersive experience into the rhythmic storytelling that transcends cultural boundaries.

Engaging Activities for the Public

The showcase was more than a static exhibition; it incorporated interactive elements designed to engage audiences. One such highlight was the "Jinhua Flavors • African Connections" tea ceremony, where visitors sampled Wuzhou Juyan tea, a fragrant blend that exemplifies the region's tea culture.

Additionally, a virtual reality installation allowed visitors to explore Jinhua’s rural cultural practices, offering a digital excursion into local traditions like the bench dragon dance and ritual fire-walking. These activities positioned visitors within the living culture of Jinhua, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.

The "Spring Calligraphy Corner" further invited participants to connect personally with the culture by writing the Chinese character Fu (fortune) and composing traditional couplets, enhancing the overall engagement of attendees.

A Step Towards Greater Cultural Exchange

The timing of this event was particularly significant as it coincided with the launch of the 2026 China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges. It reflects Jinhua's commitment to engaging in international cultural partnerships and emphasizes its eagerness to foster more collaborations with African institutions and cultural organizations. City representatives expressed their dedication to continuing to develop these international cultural initiatives, which serve not only to celebrate Jinhua’s rich heritage but also to build deeper connections across cultures.

In conclusion, Jinhua's showcase at the UNECA was a vivid expression of cultural pride and the transformative power of art and heritage. It served as a reminder of the significance of cultural dialogue in an increasingly interconnected world, celebrating the beauty of diversity and unity through shared artistic expression.