On the evening of January 9th, the 2026 New Year Gala for Chinese and International Students and Faculty kicked off at the Beijing Forestry University Gymnasium. Representatives from the International College, the Office of International Relations, the Publicity Department, College of Biology, the College of Economics and Management, and the College of Grassland Science gathered together with international student supervisors, counselors, foreign experts, and students from both China and abroad to celebrate the New Year in an atmosphere filled with joy and laughter.

Before the official performance began, a unique "Warm Winter Garden Party" first ignited the festive atmosphere. Several meticulously designed cultural interaction zones became micro-windows for Chinese and international students and faculty to perceive diverse cultures. The elegance of the Pitch-pot game and the warmth of writing the character "Fu" with brush and ink allowed traditional Chinese folk culture to touch hearts through immersive experiences. Through matching recordings in different languages with corresponding cards, students and teachers broke down language barriers in relaxed and pleasant interactions, initiating dialogues that transcended national borders. The garden party activities not only brought Chinese and international students and faculty closer but also sparked brilliant sparks from the collision of traditional Chinese customs and world cultures.

The gala performance opened amidst warm applause, featuring three interlinked and spectacular chapters that vividly showcased a campus landscape where diverse cultures coexist and blend.

The first chapter, "Spring Across Four Seas," featured a joint performance of the song Great China by international student TSHIBAMB TSHIKWEJ ARDENE from the DR Congo, SHAKIROVA IANA from Russia, and teacher representatives from the International College and the Office of International Relations. With soaring vocals, they conveyed the deep friendship of international students toward China, sang a moving melody of Chinese and foreign teachers and students advancing hand in hand, and ignited the patriotic sentiments of the entire audience.

The second chapter, "Chasing the Light," focused on youth and vitality. A medley of pop dances performed by international students from multiple countries showcased the vigorous vitality of global youth with dynamic rhythms and synchronized steps. The melodious tune of the French song La Vie En Rose transcended language boundaries, evoking emotional resonance throughout the venue. Through their spirited performances, international students vividly interpreted their love for youth and dedication to dreams, highlighting the inclusivity and vitality of campus culture.

The third chapter, "Voyaging for Dreams," pushed the gala to its climax. The "Lin Lin Band," composed of both Chinese and international students, performed A Jay Chou Mashup, awakening the youthful memories of the audience with familiar melodies. To the beat of the interactive dance Left and Right, teachers and students across the hall stepped onto the dance floor to dance together, their laughter echoing through the gymnasium. At this moment, students and faculty of different complexions and languages connected heart to heart, allowing the seeds of cross-cultural communication to quietly take root in everyone's heart.

For a long time, the International College has been committed to building a platform for diverse interaction and exchange for Chinese and international students and faculty. This gala was not only a splendid cultural event but also a vivid microcosm of the university's achievements in international education. It effectively enhanced the international students' sense of belonging on campus and cultivated their sentiment of being knowledgeable about and friendly to China. In the coming year, the International College will continue to uphold an open and inclusive educational philosophy, dedicated to telling China's stories well, spreading the voice of BFU, and contributing BFU's strength to promoting the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.