Experience Unforgettable Cultural Diversity at the 35th Shanghai Tourism Festival: Top Events, Exclusive Offers, and Global Attractions

Published on October 3, 2024

The 35th Shanghai Tourism Festival officially kicked off on September 14, 2024, with a spectacular opening ceremony on the bustling Nanjing Road Pedestrian Mall. Olympic athletes, international performers, and local artists gathered to celebrate both local and international cultures in a grand parade, marking the start of this iconic event. This year’s festival, running until October 6, offers visitors and locals an array of experiences, highlighting Shanghai’s cultural diversity and international appeal.

The festival’s theme, “Visiting Shanghai,” is designed to create memorable experiences for attendees, offering them a unique journey through the city’s rich cultural landscapes. The vibrant opening parade featured 25 performance teams from across Asia, Europe, America, and Oceania, each accompanied by stunning floats. Among the notable participants was Shanghai’s very own Olympic athlete Tan Haiyang, fresh from competing in the Paris 2024 Games. Together with local singers and dancers, they opened the event with an electrifying performance titled “Igniting, Joyful City.”

Diverse Cultural Offerings Across 100 Events

This year’s festival boasts an impressive lineup of 100 events, showcasing over 1,000 products and involving 10,000 businesses. Attendees can immerse themselves in various themed activities, including “Sleepless Nights of Fun,” “Waterfront Adventures,” and “Urban Charm.” Additionally, cultural exhibitions such as “The Great Art of Dunhuang” and “Exhibition on Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt” allow visitors to explore Shanghai’s blend of traditional and international influences.

Each of Shanghai’s districts will be highlighting its unique attractions. Whether it’s ancient town explorations, waterway tours, or vibrant food festivals, each event is crafted to showcase the city’s cultural richness. For instance, the double-decker sightseeing buses have added a special feature this year—the “Eternal Notre-Dame” virtual reality digital immersion exhibition, providing a unique cultural experience for passengers.

Moreover, seven specially themed CityWalk tours have been organized, offering participants a closer look at Shanghai’s urban culture, from historical landmarks to modern marvels. These walks promise to be a highlight for those wanting to experience the city’s blend of history and modernity.

Exclusive Promotions and Discounts

In celebration of the festival, Shanghai is offering various exclusive promotions. Visitors can take advantage of half-price tickets at 62 local attractions, including special discounts for the “Great Art of Dunhuang” exhibition and the “Pude Light City” float. Travel companies are also joining in the festivities. For instance, Trip.com has enhanced its free half-day tour for international visitors and partnered with over 200 brands from 20 countries to offer exclusive deals on hotels, airport services, and attraction tickets. Greenland Group has collaborated with Expedia to offer privileges such as complimentary exhibition tickets.

Furthermore, Global Harbor Mall is welcoming over 20 new stores during the festival, adding more shopping options for visitors. Jiushi Tourism is also offering special sports and travel deals, aligning with the 2024 Shanghai Rolex Masters, making it a prime time for both shopping and sports enthusiasts to visit the city.

A Global Platform for Shanghai’s Culture

Since its inception, the Shanghai Tourism Festival has grown into a globally recognized event, showcasing the city as a world-class tourist destination. Cheng Meihong, Deputy Director General of the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, emphasized how the festival has played a vital role in elevating Shanghai’s status on the global stage. “The Festival has become a symbol of Shanghai, providing a window for international travelers to explore the city’s stunning landscapes, culinary delights, and deep-rooted cultural heritage,” said Cheng.

The 35th edition of the festival continues this tradition, cementing Shanghai’s place as a premier destination for tourists worldwide. With its diverse offerings, the festival not only celebrates the city’s rich cultural history but also invites global visitors to experience firsthand the vibrant energy and charm that define Shanghai.

As the festival unfolds, residents and visitors alike are encouraged to immerse themselves in this year’s broad array of events, promotions, and cultural exhibitions. With its unique combination of local and international influences, the 35th Shanghai Tourism Festival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of cultural diversity.