A Celebration of Culture and Connection: ISB's 2025 International Day

By Declan Doheny, ISB Communications 

Published on October 31, 2025

The International School of Beijing (ISB) came alive once again with color, culture, and community spirit as students, parents, and staff celebrated International Day 2025 — one of ISB’s most cherished annual traditions.

Organized by the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) and supported by our dedicated Dragon Spirit team, this vibrant event reflected the heart of the ISB experience — belonging, global citizenship, and pride in our shared diversity.

A Parade of Nations and Global Pride

The afternoon began with the International Day Parade, where students proudly represented more than 80 countries and regions. Dressed in traditional attire and carrying their national flags, they filled the stadium with music, color, and joy. The sense of unity and celebration was palpable as the ISB community came together to honor the rich cultures that shape our school.

Guests of Honor

ISB was honored to welcome two distinguished guests to this year’s celebration:

• Her Excellency Anyin Choo, Ambassador of Guyana to the People’s Republic of China
• Basketball legend Yao Ming, celebrated not only for his athletic achievements but also as a philanthropist, conservationist, and global citizen.

Yao Ming later held a dialogue with students and community members in Gym 2, sharing his perspectives on leadership, purpose, and success beyond the court — a true highlight of the day.

Showcases and Performances

Throughout the afternoon, ISB’s campus buzzed with performances, cultural showcases, and delicious food from around the world.

• In the MS/HS Theater, student performers took to the stage with a dazzling mix of music, dance, poetry, and traditional arts — from Korean K-pop to Irish dance and Shaolin kung fu.
• The Gym 2 performances featured the beloved It’s a Small World Choir before Yao Ming’s engaging student session.
• Across campus, families hosted cultural booths and food stalls, offering a taste of global cuisine and community connection.

The energy and enthusiasm of our students were on full display, showing how the arts, language, and creativity continue to thrive at ISB.

A Shared Celebration of Community

International Day is far more than a single event — it is a reflection of who we are as a community. Through music, food, and cultural expression, we reaffirm our shared values of inclusion, respect, and belonging.

A heartfelt thank-you to our PTA, Dragon Spirit team, and the countless volunteers whose efforts made this day such a success. Your passion and dedication embody the true spirit of ISB.

Here’s to another unforgettable International Day — and to the friendships, understanding, and pride that continue to unite our global community.