The awards ceremony and gala of the "Cultures of China: Water Cube Cup" Chinese Songs Contest is held at the National Aquatics Center in Beijing, Aug. 8, 2025. [Photo by Gong Yingchun/China.org.cn]

The 15th "Cultures of China: Water Cube Cup" Chinese Songs Contest concluded with a spectacular awards ceremony and gala at the National Aquatics Center in Beijing on Aug. 8, 2025.

The contest ran for more than six months and drew over 7,200 participants from 56 competition zones in 31 countries across five continents. The annual event has become a cultural bridge connecting Chinese communities worldwide, organizers said.

The awards ceremony and gala of the "Cultures of China: Water Cube Cup" Chinese Songs Contest is held at the National Aquatics Center in Beijing, Aug. 8, 2025. [Photo by Gong Yingchun/China.org.cn]

Winners received gold, silver and bronze prizes across multiple categories, along with special honors including cultural ambassador titles and awards for organizational performance. Nearly 100 contestants performed with well-known Chinese singers at the gala.

The awards ceremony and gala of the "Cultures of China: Water Cube Cup" Chinese Songs Contest is held at the National Aquatics Center in Beijing, Aug. 8, 2025. [Photo by Gong Yingchun/China.org.cn]

A 15th anniversary segment featured a commemorative scroll that global participants signed to symbolize bonds formed through the contest. The gala was livestreamed on platforms including iQiyi, Bilibili and YouTube, drawing viewers worldwide.

The awards ceremony and gala of the "Cultures of China: Water Cube Cup" Chinese Songs Contest is held at the National Aquatics Center in Beijing, Aug. 8, 2025. [Photo by Gong Yingchun/China.org.cn]

As the host venue, the National Aquatics Center handled stage design, lighting, sound, guest services and event coordination. The event showcased the venue's evolution from an Olympic arena to a versatile, world-class cultural stage.

In recent years, the center has used its Olympic facilities to host both water and ice sports competitions. It has also become a popular site for broader cultural programming such as exhibitions, performances and charity initiatives.

The awards ceremony and gala of the "Cultures of China: Water Cube Cup" Chinese Songs Contest is held at the National Aquatics Center in Beijing, Aug. 8, 2025. [Photo by Gong Yingchun/China.org.cn]

Built with donations from about 350,000 compatriots from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, as well as overseas Chinese in more than 100 countries and regions, the venue serves as a platform for cultural exchange among overseas Chinese communities. The venue uses its brand to promote Chinese culture internationally and seeks to bring more visitors to experience it firsthand.

Looking ahead, the venue plans to broaden its offerings and build its profile as an open, welcoming cultural landmark in Beijing.