Christmas cheer, good tidings to all for guests at Shangri-La, Dalian

Despite the winter chill, a charity ball amid the Christmas lights at Shangri-La Hotel, Dalian in northeastern China recently sent warmth to those in need of help.

Partnering with the International Club of Dalian and the AmCham Northeast China Chapter, the hotel in Dalian, Liaoning province hosted the Winter Charity Ball and a Christmas tree lighting ceremony in early December, raising 160,000 yuan ($23,310) for local charity organizations. The event attracted nearly 400 participants, including executives of local and foreign-funded businesses.

The annual ball has taken place for 10 consecutive years and has become a key year-end charity gala in the city.