Light up the tree, light up the hope

What are your usual activities when Christmas approaches? You will surely say something about decorating Christmas trees, preparing gifts and cards, putting on a red hat and getting ready for a big dinner. Traditional as they are, you might want to try a new way.

On December 3^rd 2016, at Canton Tower, the 2016 International Food & Fun Fair, as well as the “Ode to Joy” Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, were held by GIVES and Canton Tower. On entering the outdoor plaza, live bands and dancing shows, stalls of international food and drinks attracted people from various countries. The leading role - the huge and well-decorated Christmas tree - was standing grandly by the Zhujiang River, waiting for its moment to be lit. Around it were the tent blocks where families and groups of friends were allowed to pitch their tents and enjoy the shining stars and the marvelous night. What’s more, all proceeds of the activity would go to support Autism research & relief in China and Music therapy programs.

Beautifully-decorated food stalls

Before the Christmas tree was lit, traditional Christmas songs and carols were well-performed by Canton Tower Choir. “Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way…” performers in bright blue gowns, with lyrics in their hands were introduced to warm applause. The audience in front of the stage all sang along together. All of a sudden, it looked as if it was Christmas Eve, and everyone was making the most sincere wish. The Christmas tree opposite the stage was then lit up, warming the sightseeing platform. “What a wonderful and warm performance!” Tina, an 11- year-old girl said.

The Canton Tower Choir

The lottery draw was also extremely remarkable throughout the event. When the presenter was counting down, everyone was very excited, looking forward to winning a prize. Fortunately, lots of people were the lucky ones, for there were a large number of prizes, including free tickets of famous scenic spots, a buffet and hotel resorts.

Lottery draw

Among the food stalls, a woman with a group of children selling snacks was wandering the plaza. On the snack box, it read “Please Help Autistic Children!” According to a short interview, they were from a 10-year-old institution called “At-home Academy”, which shows up regularly at this event to raise money for autistic children. ”Our money not only comes from selling snacks and tickets, but also from people with good hearts” said the director of “At-home Academy”. They were the biggest donators at this event with the donation of over ten thousand in one day.

“The food and shows are wonderful. The event is meaningful, for the ticket fee is collected and donated to help autistic children. It’s really great!” said Howard Martin, a GDUFS teacher from Canada. He got to know this event from Matt Horn, another teacher of GDUFS, who was the host of the gala.

GDUFS Teacher attended the event (Left)

“There were many volunteers attending this event. Besides helping autistic children, they also help children in poor mountainous areas in China,” a volunteer from Guangdong University of Technology expressed his joyful feeling in helping others to us.

Interview with a volunteer from Guangdong University of Technology

All of these meaningful details had made this ceremony different from a usual one. Wonderful performances, delicious world cuisine and the effort made to support autism integrated fully into the event. Under the luminous lights of the huge Christmas tree, the 2016 International Food & Fun Fair came to a satisfying end.

Introduction: GIVES, short for the Guangdong International Volunteer Expatriate Service, was formed in 1995. It is a community service platform representing the friendship and support of many expatriates from different countries who are living and working in Guangdong.