"Welcome to Shenzhen for the Chinese New Year!" Keith Kennedy, a retired gardener from Canada's world-famous Butchart Gardens, stood in front of his stall decorated with hydrangeas and daffodils. He flashed a peace sign at the camera and greeted everyone in unpolished Chinese. This heartwarming scene became one of the most vivid snapshots of this year's Futian Flower Fair.

This year's Spring Festival flower fair turned into a vibrant stage for cultural exchange. More and more international friends like Keith are crossed oceans to immerse themselves in China's traditional New Year celebrations.

"I've been traveling to China for ten years now—about 20 trips. Now that I'm retired, I can spend more time here. I usually stay through autumn and winter, then head back to Canada in spring." Keith said.

As a former employee of Butchart Gardens, this was his first time joining the Futian Flower Fair as an exhibitor. Invited to participate, he saw the experience as a rare opportunity to dive deep into Chinese floral culture and Spring Festival traditions.

At Keith's booth, hydrangeas, daylilies, daffodils, and chrysanthemums bloomed side by side. While the plant varieties were familiar locally, the arrangement reflects Butchart's signature gardening philosophy—"beauty through all seasons, charm at every step"—alongside a touch of sustainable horticulture.

Having visited Guangdong over a dozen times, exploring Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Zhuhai, the seasoned gardener had nothing but praise for the region. "Shenzhen, Guangdong—the whole place is just stunningly beautiful and incredibly fascinating. Every visit brings me joy."

When it comes to Chinese New Year traditions, Keith was full of admiration. "Your whole Spring Festival culture is just so rich and meaningful. We celebrate Christmas and New Year's too, but the Chinese New Year has so many rituals and celebrations—it's far more interesting."

Looking ahead to the APEC meeting set to take place in Shenzhen this year, Keith is optimistic. "It's really important for Canadians to understand China better, and for Chinese people to learn more about Canadian culture. I believe everyone can work through challenges together. This meeting is going to be a great success."

Reporter: Liu Chang, Wang Na
Photos: Liu Chang, Wang Na
Video: Liu Chang, Wang Na
English Author & Editor: Wen Junhua