Expats living in Wuxi get handmade silk souvenirs. [Photo by Xiao Da/chinadaily.com.cn]

They also took part in several traditional activities, such as playing the guzheng (Chinese zither), practicing tai chi, watching qipao shows, and writing Chinese calligraphy with brushes.

Goutam, an Indian art teacher who now works at Wuxi No 1 High School, impressed spectators with his skill with the brush and wowed them with a seven-minute quick ink sketch of the Buddha.

They were also invited to a local dragon dance competition, a highlight of the sanyuesan celebrations. The dragon, with a history of over 8,000 years, is an auspicious symbol within Chinese culture and represents a desire for peace, fortune and good luck.

Hayford, a man from Ghana, said he enjoyed the day very much, specifically the deep immersion into Chinese culture and the various cultural performances. He particularly enjoyed the tai chi exercises, due to their slow and relaxing movements.

"I just found tai chi really relaxing, and I love China and its traditional culture," Hayford said.