Washington D.C. -The 22nd annual Washington Chinese Culture Festival, held on August 31, 2024, on Pennsylvania Avenue NW, was a resounding success, drawing nearly 10,000 attendees. The festival featured a diverse array of Chinese arts, music, cuisine, and traditions, providing a unique opportunity for both locals and visitors to experience and engage with Chinese culture.
Miss DC 2024, Katie Ann Powell reading POTUS @POTUS Biden's message to the attendees of the Festival. @AmbXieFeng @ChineseEmbinUS @Chinamission2un @CSISCBE @ucasocial @USChinaBusiness @KimberlyBassett @Wecaa_official @JanDuPlain @PatrickRealiza@HealthyLights @gotebs pic.twitter.com/hhJpiIW4w2
— DiplomaticWatch (@Diplo_Watch) September 7, 2024
The day showcased a series of speeches from key figures, highlighting the strong cultural connections between China and the United States. Miss D.C. 2024, Katie Ann Powell, opened the program by reading a congratulatory letter from President Joe Biden, which emphasized the importance of events like this in celebrating the contributions of the Chinese American community. The festival also marked the 45th anniversary of U.S.-China diplomatic relations, a notable backdrop to the day’s activities.
The Chinese Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency delivered his opening remarks at the 22nd Washington Chinese Culture Festival @AmbXieFeng@ChineseEmbinUS @Chinamission2un @CSISCBE @ucasocial @USChinaBusiness @ClarenceLamMD @JanDuPlain @PatrickRealiza @HealthyLights… pic.twitter.com/fVAvYfg20M
— DiplomaticWatch (@Diplo_Watch) September 7, 2024
Chinese Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Xie Feng, followed with welcoming remarks, thanking the District of Columbia government and local Chinese organizations for their efforts in organizing the event. He acknowledged the dedication of Chinese communities, local artists, and media representatives who worked tirelessly to make the festival a success. Ambassador Xie also spoke about China’s ongoing efforts to enhance the travel experience for foreign visitors, noting initiatives aimed at improving accommodation and visa processes.
Craig Allen, President of US-China Business Council speaking at the 22nd Washington Chinese Culture Festival. @AmbXieFeng @ChineseEmbinUS @Chinamission2un @CSISCBE @ucasocial @USChinaBusiness @ClarenceLamMD @JanDuPlain @PatrickRealiza @HealthyLights @gotebs pic.twitter.com/vjyvPcNVd0
— DiplomaticWatch (@Diplo_Watch) September 7, 2024
Craig Allen, President of the U.S.-China Business Council, addressed the festival, stating the value of cultural exchange. He pointed out that the event, coming on the 45th anniversary of the reestablishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, offers an essential platform for mutual understanding. He also reflected on the role of these relations in maintaining peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region over the past almost five decades.
Ambassador of Guyana, H.E. A.A. Hinds gave a solidarity speech at the Washington Chinese Culture Festival on August 31, 2024 @mfaguyana @AmbXieFeng @ChineseEmbinUS @Chinamission2un @CSISCBE @ucasocial @USChinaBusiness @ClarenceLamMD @JanDuPlain @PatrickRealiza @HealthyLights… pic.twitter.com/i0XSXDxuWN
— DiplomaticWatch (@Diplo_Watch) September 7, 2024
Guyana’s Ambassador to the U.S., Samuel A.A. Hinds, also spoke at the event, bringing greetings from Guyana and recognizing the contributions of Chinese American families to Washington, D.C. Maryland State Senator Clarence Lam and Delegate Chao Wu were among the local representatives who added their voices to the occasion. Senator Lam expressed his appreciation for the return of the giant pandas to the National Zoo later this year, a notable highlight for many festivalgoers.
Senator Clarence Lam, Maryland Senate delivered a brief speech and presented a citation from the Maryland General Assembly. @ClarenceLamMD @AmbXieFeng @ChineseEmbinUS @Chinamission2un @CSISCBE @ucasocial @USChinaBusiness @JanDuPlain @PatrickRealiza @HealthyLights@gotebs pic.twitter.com/HXJpRRpQ8O
— DiplomaticWatch (@Diplo_Watch) September 7, 2024
Throughout the day, participants enjoyed cultural performances on the main stage, along with opportunities to engage in traditional Chinese calligraphy, Tai Chi demonstrations, and various artistic exhibits. The festival’s lively atmosphere and diverse activities bolstered a deeper connection between the American public and Chinese culture, contributing to a broader understanding and appreciation of the ties between the two nations.
Beautiful Lion dance performance at the Washington Chinese Culture Festival @AmbXieFeng @ChineseEmbinUS @Chinamission2un @CSISCBE@ucasocial @USChinaBusiness @ClarenceLamMD @KimberlyBassett @JanDuPlain @PatrickRealiza @HealthyLights @gotebs pic.twitter.com/eWQEIdVruL
— DiplomaticWatch (@Diplo_Watch) September 7, 2024
By the end of the festival, the event had offered attendees a meaningful exploration of China’s cultural richness, cementing its status as an annual celebration that brings communities together through shared experiences.
