Grand Opening Celebrates Global Cultures
The 35th Shanghai Tourism Festival began on September 14, featuring a grand parade and live performances along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Mall, where local and international cultures were celebrated by Olympic athletes and global artists. This exciting annual event, known for its spectacular displays of music, dance, and artistry, kicked off with a colorful and vibrant showcase of the world’s cultural diversity, delighting both local residents and international visitors.
A Unique Journey for Residents and Tourists
Running until October 6, the Festival promises unforgettable experiences for both local residents and tourists alike. The opening ceremony featured 25 performance teams representing various regions across Asia, Europe, America, and Oceania, each accompanied by one of the 25 dazzling floats. Adding to the excitement, Shanghai’s Olympic athletes, including Paris 2024 hopeful Tan Haiyang, teamed up with singers and dancers to deliver a captivating performance for the opening show, titled “Igniting, Joyful City.” symbolizing unity through cultural celebration.
A Wide Range of Events and Experiences
The Festival is themed “Visiting Shanghai,” and it is hosting a remarkable lineup of activities that cater to a broad audience. Over 100 events will take place, introducing 1,000 unique products and welcoming the participation of 10,000 businesses. Highlights include “Sleepless Nights of Fun,” “Waterfront Adventures,” and “Urban Charm,” designed to offer diverse experiences for visitors. The Festival also features special exhibitions, such as “The Great Art of Dunhuang” and “Exhibition On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt,” allowing attendees to explore both ancient and modern cultural landscapes.
Each District Showcases Unique Charm
Each district in Shanghai is embracing the festival with its own distinct themes. From ancient town explorations and waterway tours to exciting food festivals, each event underscores the city’s rich cultural diversity. The double-deck sightseeing bus tours are also offering an enhanced experience this year with the introduction of the “Eternal Notre-Dame” VR digital exhibition, providing a truly immersive cultural journey for passengers. Moreover, seven specially themed CityWalk events are being organized to highlight Shanghai’s vibrant urban culture.
Exclusive Promotions and Discounts for Visitors
Visitors will also benefit from numerous exclusive promotions during the Festival. These include half-price tickets at 62 popular attractions, limited-time discounts for “The Great Art of Dunhuang” exhibition from Chunqiu Tourism, and special offers on the “Pude Light City” float by SAGA. Moreover, Greenland Group has teamed up with Expedia to offer international tourists privileges such as free tickets to exhibitions, enhancing their experience of Shanghai’s cultural scene.
Collaborations and Special Packages
Further partnerships have been established for the Festival, including Trip.com’s enhanced free half-day tour for international inbound customers. Trip.com is also collaborating with over 200 brands from 20 countries, offering special discounts on hotel stays, airport transfers, and tickets to top attractions. In addition, the Global Harbor mall will unveil over 20 new stores during the Festival, while Jiushi Tourism will introduce sports and travel packages ahead of the 2024 Shanghai Rolex Masters.
Shanghai’s Growing Global Presence
“The Festival has become a symbol of Shanghai, reinforcing its status as a world-class tourist destination,” remarked Cheng Meihong, Deputy Director General of the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism. This event provides visitors with a glimpse into Shanghai’s stunning scenery, exquisite cuisine, and vibrant cultural heritage, while also promoting a greater appreciation for China’s varied traditions.
With the Shanghai Tourism Festival continuing to grow in scale and importance, the city is solidifying its place as a premier global destination, offering visitors a rich tapestry of cultural experiences that celebrate both tradition and modernity.