A delegation from Tacoma in the US state of Washington, takes selfies with Chinese students while visiting the Affiliated High School of Fuzhou Institute of Education on June 26, 2024. [Photo by Hu Meidong/China Daily]

To commemorate the 80th anniversary of China's victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Anti-Fascist War, as well as the founding of the United Nations, the Bond with Kuliang: 2025 China-US Youth Choir Festival will take place from July 9 to 18, aligning with the initiative to invite 50,000 young Americans to China over a five-year span for exchange and study programs.

Under the theme "Sing for Peace", the festival will bring together nearly 1,000 participants from both nations. They'll include representatives from organizations like the Kuliang Friends and the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation, along with 22 youth choirs from both nations, fostering cross-cultural dialogue through music.

The highlights are as follows:

In Fuzhou (July 9-13):

Activities kick off with an opening ceremony. Attendees will tour scenic spots like the Guling Scenic Area and collaborate on painting themed artworks entitled "Bond with Kuliang: Peace Pact".

In addition, students can interact directly through campus visits by choir groups to universities such as Fujian Normal University or flash mob performances at landmarks the Three Lanes and Seven Alleys area, Yantai Hill Park and the Fujian Museum.

A dedicated concert featuring joint rehearsals conducted by international maestros is scheduled to be held at the Grand Theatre Hall on the evening of July 11.

The festival aims to underscore the power of youth in bridging historical divides and strengthening China-US ties through art and shared heritage. By uniting young voices, it aims to promote lasting global harmony.