Shekou was turned into a cross-continental culinary destination Saturday afternoon as the “Hello APEC · Get to Know the United States” cultural bazaar offered an immersive feast of exchange to both local and expatriate residents.

Visitors crowd the venue of the “Hello APEC · Get to Know the United States” cultural bazaar in Shekou, Shenzhen, on Saturday. Organized as part of the “Hello APEC” cultural series, the event highlighted American-themed food, performances and community activities. Photos courtesy of Shekou MSCE

Organized by the Shekou Management and Service Center for Expats (Shekou MSCE), the event was part of the "Hello APEC" cultural series. With strong support from the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou, the bazaar featured a wide range of American-style food, sports, music, performances and knowledge-based outreach — showcasing authentic American flair while deepening people-to-people cultural ties.

A participant poses and displays American-themed food and cultural items during the “Hello APEC · Get to Know the United States” cultural bazaar in Shekou on Saturday.

Representatives from the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou's Public Affairs and Cultural Services section and its U.S. Citizen Services office were present to provide on-site consultations. The initiative allowed American nationals living in Shenzhen to access convenient and efficient citizen services and cultural information within their own neighborhood without traveling to Guangzhou.

At the venue, richly fragrant American barbecue and flavorful steak dishes were especially popular. American red wine, American coffee, classic bagels, and distinctive American snacks offered a genuine taste of the U.S. that earned widespread acclaim. Imported American cheeses, beer, and other specialty snacks also drew interest, allowing attendees to experience American food culture firsthand.

Visitors take part in American football activities and interactive cultural experiences during the “Hello APEC · Get to Know the United States” cultural bazaar in Shekou on Saturday.

More than a celebration of "food," the bazaar also delivered "action." Seasoned American coaches guided participants through authentic American sports, including baseball, pickleball, and American football which blend speed and strategy. Trendy skateboarding and dynamic surfing added an extra spark, bringing adrenaline and style to the crowd throughout the event.

The stage programming was equally engaging. Shine, a U.S. resident in Shekou, opened the show with a Michael Jackson classic song-and-dance performance. Students and teachers from an international school for American children in Shenzhen took turns on stage, showcasing youthful energy. Interactive nine-grid games and a lucky draw kept momentum high, with lively engagement between performers and attendees that helped everyone experience the charm of American arts and culture.

Performers and visitors take part in music and interactive activities during the cultural bazaar in Shekou on Saturday.

Cabe, an American expat and long-time Shekou resident, said, "I have lived here for many years. I'm very happy to show American skateboarding here today. Seeing the Route 66-themed set design, the performances, and all the food and games made me feel like I'm back in the United States. Thank you to the Shekou MSCE for organizing this bazaar — I truly feel a sense of belonging."

Mark, a resident from the Philippines, added: "The event was fantastic — everything was perfectly executed and truly enjoyable. I hope to see more bazaars highlighting different countries in the future." 

Each month, the Shekou MSCE highlights a different APEC economy through theme events, bringing a global perspective to the community and making an international experience more accessible. The American cultural bazaar also coincided with U.S. President Donald Trump's visit to China from May 13 to 15.