Shanghai Tourism Festival in full swing

The 37th Shanghai Tourism Festival classic events season is in full swing, with more than 170 cultural and tourism activities planned before the festival closes on Oct 6.

As the signature highlight, the grand parade of the festival will kick off on Sept 12 at Jinniu Square on East Zhongshan No 1 Road along the Bund, bringing together 21 domestic and international performance troupes and 21 themed floats.

Marking its first-ever crossover with major cultural exhibitions, the parade will tie in with Shanghai Museum's blockbuster Top of the World Tree: Ancient Civilizations of the Americas and other high-profile shows, extending museum IPs from gallery halls to city streets. A themed float dedicated to the 48th WorldSkills Competition will also debut, joined by former event champions and industry practitioners.

From Sept 13 to Oct 6, the floats will tour 10 districts citywide. Selected troupes will also stage flash performances at iconic city landmarks from Sept 13 to 15.

The festival features a rich lineup including seasonal signature dishes in partnership with Michelin and Black Pearl restaurants, time-honored brand fairs, intangible cultural heritage showcases, live performances, and top-tier sports events such as the Head of Shanghai River Regatta and UIM F1H2O World Championship Grand Prix.

Each district has curated flagship programs. Huangpu rolls out the rose wedding ceremony, the Bund international art festival, and the Yu Garden intangible cultural heritage music season. Jing'an launches immersive tea experiences and themed markets. Putuo builds on its Half Marathon Suzhou Creek cultural tourism festival, highlighted by the Suzhou Creek history and culture exhibition, Mid-Autumn river cruises, and a large RV music carnival. The closing ceremony will be held at the Guangfulin cultural relics park in Songjiang. The district will also host illuminated float displays, guochao (Chinese trendy culture) activities, and a forest tourism season during the festival.

Visitor benefits include discounted admission to select scenic spots and cultural venues. Putuo and Qingpu districts will issue cultural and tourism consumption vouchers covering accommodation, attractions, and retail.