The 2026 "Friends of Shandong" Spring Festival Gala in Jinan brings together local and international guests to celebrate Spring Festival. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The 2026 "Friends of Shandong" Spring Festival Gala took place from Feb 9 to 10 in Jinan, the capital of Shandong province. The event united locals and international guests, including foreign experts, business representatives, sister-city delegates, and international students from 10 countries, to celebrate the upcoming Year of the Horse.

The "Friends of Shandong" initiative focuses on creating a leading platform for cultural exchange, promoting stronger connections between the province's international residents and locals. Nearly 20 "Friends of Shandong" events have been held across the province to date.

Constantin Vasca, vice-president of the China-Romania Friendship Association and a representative of Romania's Cluj county in Shandong, and his family share Spring Festival wishes at the event. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The gala included cultural performances and a banquet. Constantin Vasca, vice-president of the China-Romania Friendship Association, extended Spring Festival wishes with his family. International students from Thailand and Sri Lanka presented song and dance performances, showcasing the unique appeal of both Chinese and international artistic traditions.

At the banquet, styled after a Chinese New Year's Eve dinner with Shandong dishes, guests enjoyed local specialties. German guest Peter Tichauer shared a story about his first visit to Shandong 40 years ago. He was impressed by the province's significant development over the years and expressed his desire to share Shandong's stories in Europe.

International guests visit the Shandong Science and Technology Market, witnessing the advanced scientific and technological capabilities of Shandong. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Additionally, international guests visited the local sci-tech market and a Chinese New Year fair in Jinan, experiencing the blend of modern and traditional festive atmosphere. An honorary citizen praised Shandong's openness and innovation, while an international student planned to share his experiences with his home country, hoping to let the friendship between the two countries continue to be passed down among the younger generations.

Sebastian (right) from Germany poses for a photo with his hand-written fu (good fortune). [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]