The annual Qingdao Neighborhood Festival kicked off on June 16 in the West Coast New Area, with a series of celebrations also taking place in other parts of the city.

Themed around the Chinese proverbs, "A good neighbor is better than a brother far away" and "a friend in need is more precious", the festival aims to promote harmony in the community as well as improve the happiness level of residents.

At the launch ceremony, local residents from all walks of life shared stories about their contributions to the fight against the novel coronavirus pandemic.

A-list actor Huang Xiaoming, a Qingdao native and ambassador of Civilized Qingdao, sent his well wishes to the festival through a video recording.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many activities during the 15-day festival will be held online, including a sales promotion for Qingdao specialties, cultural-themed events, employment guidance and other events that benefit the public.

Local residents share stories of their contributions to the fight against the novel coronavirus at the opening ceremony. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The annual Qingdao Neighborhood Festival kicks off on June 16 in the Qingdao West Coast New Area. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Local specialties are promoted at the opening ceremony of the Qingdao Neighborhood Festival. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Huang Xiaoming, an actor from Qingdao, sends his well wishes to the festival through a video recording. [Photo/WeChat account: qdfbwx]