Beijing CBD festival brings emerging tech to the public

Visitors to Beijing's Central Business District encountered a different scene from the usual office rush on June 12, as robots, artificial intelligence technologies and digital art installations took over China Central Place's outdoor plaza.

The event, titled "Future Gravity Field", marked the opening of the second AI Science and Technology Art Festival, an official side event of the 2026 CBD Forum. Organized by China Central Place under the guidance of the Beijing CBD administrative committee and other local authorities, the festival aims to bring emerging technologies closer to the public through interactive experiences and art displays.

The three-day event gathers more than a dozen technology companies showcasing developments in robotics, AI applications, brain-computer interfaces, and autonomous mobility, along with food and beverage vendors.

One of the most popular attractions is a robot soccer arena, where visitors use remote controls to guide miniature robots in competitive matches. Cheers erupted from spectators whenever a goal was scored.

The opening ceremony featured humanoid robots performing synchronized dance routines to electronic music, drawing large crowds.

Cyberpunk-themed cosplayers also roamed the venue, interacting with visitors and posing for photos. Many office workers from nearby towers stopped by during lunchtime, while families with children spent hours exploring the exhibits.

Festival organizers also introduced an interactive passport-style activity, encouraging visitors to complete tasks at different exhibition booths for a chance to win prizes.

According to organizers, the event is intended to demonstrate how advanced technologies can move beyond laboratories and exhibition halls into everyday public spaces.

"The CBD is not only an economic engine for Beijing, but also a place where people can experience and participate in future lifestyles," a representative of the CBD administrative committee said at the event.