International Cultural Festival (ICF) - the vibrant celebration every May - remains an integral part of China's cultural landscape, with various universities, particularly in Beijing, hosting events that showcase global traditions to international community. Through music, food, dance, art, and cultural exchanges, the festival highlights the rich diversity of the international student community that calls China home. It fosters mutual understanding and strengthens connections, promoting a more interconnected and harmonious global community. 

As students share the unique heritages of their home countries, ICF enhances connectivity between international students and the local community. These exchanges of traditions and stories create a powerful sense of unity in diversity.

In a nation as vast and culturally varied as China, ICF provides a rare opportunity for everyone to experience the beauty of global cultures in one place. It underscores the importance of education and cultural exchange in building a more interconnected and harmonious world.

Serving as a platform for international and local students, it encourages meaningful dialogue, sharing of experiences and celebration of shared values that unite people across borders.

Beihang University (BUAA), one of China’s leading institutions for aerospace and astronautics, transformed its campus into a dynamic cultural hub as it celebrates the annual ICF. The event brought students together from across the world, reflecting the university's growing global community. 

A major highlight of the festival was the parade of nations, where students proudly showcased their national flags and traditional attire, symbolizing unity in diversity. It also featured cultural performances, including dances and music from different regions, captivating audiences with their artistry. Alongside these performances, cultural booths lined the campus, offering visitors the chance to experience global traditions through food, crafts and storytelling.

Founded in 1952, BUAA has built a strong reputation for innovation and international collaboration. Beyond celebrating diversity, the ICF fosters cross-cultural exchange and unity, strengthening connections between international students and the local community. The festival reflects Beihang’s commitment to global education, promoting mutual understanding and cooperation in an increasingly interconnected world.

This annual festival not only provides a platform for cultural understanding, but also encourages meaningful dialogue. Through these interactions, BUAA will continue to grow and cultivate a spirit of inclusivity, preparing students to become future leaders in a multicultural society.


The parade of nations, a hallmark of the traditional ICF celebrations, saw international students at RUC proudly carrying their national flags and wearing traditional attire, symbolizing the university’s commitment to cultural diversity. This vibrant procession set the tone for a day filled with dynamic performances, engaging exhibits, and opportunities for meaningful dialogue.

Renmin University of China (RUC), renowned as one of the nation's premier institutions for humanities and social sciences, transformed its campus into a colorful mosaic of global cultures as it hosted the annual ICF. This festival brought together students, faculty, and guests from around the world, fostering an atmosphere of unity, diversity, and cross-cultural exchange.

Throughout the event, the campus buzzed with activity as cultural booths lined the university grounds, offering visitors an immersive experience of global traditions. From tantalizing international cuisine and traditional crafts to storytelling sessions and language exchanges, each booth provided a gateway to unique cultural journeys. Performances of traditional dances, musical showcases, and theatrical acts from various regions not only captivated attendees but also provided deep insights into the heritage and artistry of different cultures.

Established in 1937, RUC has long stood as a distinguished center of academic excellence and global collaboration, reflecting its dedication to promoting cross-cultural dialogue and mutual understanding. This festival echoes that sprit, showcasing RUC’s academic forums and cultural exchanges, while encouraging discussions on global issues, diversity, and the vital role of cultural exchange in education.

As RUC continues to expands its global presence, the ICF will serve as a testament to its commitment to nurturing an inclusive, multicultural environment and preparing its students to become future leaders equipped with cultural sensitivity and global outlook needed to thrive in diverse socieites.