Autumn paints Changchun in rich hues in October, yet a wave of enthusiasm has swept the city ahead of the season. On October 7, the 100-day countdown event for the Changchun 2027 Winter Universiade kicked off. The torch, medals, official uniforms and promotional songs were unveiled together. A fun run was launched, accompanied by dance performances, a concert and a spectacular drone show. The whole city is warming up for this grand winter sports gala, extending Changchun's invitation to the world.

The Changchun International Aviation Expo City buzzed with energy that day. The opening dance Marching Toward the Universiade instantly fired up the atmosphere. Young dancers moved as lightly as snowflakes while burning with fiery passion. The torch "Jixiang", medals "Jimeng", official uniforms, and promotional songs We Meet in Changchun and Shine in the Winter made their debut one after another. A young child tugged at their parent’s hand, eyes sparkling: "This uniform is so beautiful. I want to be a torchbearer someday!" The innocent words carry the sincere expectations of people across the city.

"In that silvery winter, we meet in Changchun…" Hu Yidan, a volunteer, took the stage to perform the promotional song. "As a volunteer, I truly feel the heavy responsibility and mission resting on young shoulders." She plans to share Changchun's ice-and-snow stories with the world through music and short videos. The Changchun team, newly crowned champion of the inaugural Northeast Super League, also came to send countdown greetings.

Meanwhile, an aviation carnival and the Universiade Market opened simultaneously, blending aviation culture with ice-and-snow cultural and creative products. Twenty-five aircraft were displayed around the venue, becoming favourite photo backdrops for visitors. The Universiade Market drew huge crowds, stocked with official licensed merchandise, university cultural creations and local delicacies. There were also ice-and-snow photo walls and interactive games. At the booth featuring Jiangyuan songhua stone, visitors gathered to admire the local stone embedded in the medals. Xu Shuo, the person in charge, spoke with pride: "We hope the Winter Universiade will introduce songhua stone and Jiangyuan to more people." Sponsors including PICC Property and Casualty and Xida Electronics were also present to offer support.

The excitement went on. Dances such as Martial Rhythm blended strength and grace, while renditions including Later triggered mass sing-alongs. More than 30 students from Jilin Sport University staged a martial arts show. "We gave up our holidays and practised every day, eager to do our part for Changchun." As dusk fell, drones rose slowly into the sky, lighting up the night with phrases such as "Changchun Culture & Tourism" and "Chase Ice and Snow Dreams, Keep Youth Forever."

Parallel events unfolded at multiple venues including the World Sculpture Park, The Hill, Xinmin Avenue, Changchun Zoological and Botanical Park and Siji Nanhe. Athlete Dong Yuyue shared her thoughts on training: "I have been fully preparing since summer, striving to deliver my best performance." In 100 days' time, the Changchun 2027 Winter Universiade will open its doors. At this moment, Changchun calls out to the world: In 100 days, let us meet in Changchun for this magnificent ice-and-snow gala!

Source: Official Website of Changchun 2027 Winter Universiade  Editor: Liu Jiadi