“Hawaii of the East” comes to Sydney

“Hawaii of the East” comes to Sydney

Sydney will host a major congress and cultural exhibition this weekend, focusing on the Chinese island state of Hainan, described by some as the “Hawaii of the East”.

The 14th Congress of the World Federation of Hainanese Associations will take place from Friday October 30 to Sunday November 1 alongside the 2015 Hainanese Culture Exhibition, marking the first time Australia has hosted the bi-annual event in the association’s 25 year history.

Previous events have been held in Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Macau and the US.

The congress aims to highlight the island’s traditions, cultural strengths and other leisure and business attributes with more than 1500 delegates from over 20 countries expected to attend.

The program opens on Saturday with a colourful opening ceremony at the Sydney Opera House which will feature the raising of flags, a cultural theatrical performance, gala dinner cruise and spectacular fireworks display over the harbour.

Leading Federal and State government officials will also attend the ceremony. Prior to the congress and cultural celebrations, the association will meet with NSW Premier Mike Baird in Parliament House on the Friday.

On the Sunday, focus will move to Sydney Showground at Sydney Olympic Park for a world summit, youth development forum and a cultural festival which includes colourful performances, an impressive Hainan photographic exhibition and an expo of Australian products.

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