Shanghai Sets to Host 177 Events at the Second International Light Festival

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Shanghai is set to host the second edition of its international light festival, titled “Light Up Shanghai,” starting next week with a series of 177 activities. From September 19 to October 18, the city aims to craft an immersive light journey complemented by stunning visual and auditory displays to stimulate economic growth.

The festival will feature a central venue along with 16 sub-venues, partnering with various businesses to develop a wide range of themed experiences under the “Light +” concept. This includes initiatives such as “Light + Business Districts,” which will span over 30 commercial areas with new markets and pop-up shops. Another component, “Light + Sports,” will team up with 16 sports-related events, including the Chinese Grand Prix in the Formula One World Championship, to attract and entertain visitors.

Additionally, the “Light + Enterprises” program will unite brands like Lululemon and JD.com to launch over 50 promotional campaigns aimed at boosting nighttime consumer activity. The festival is also heavily infused with technological innovation, utilizing artificial intelligence and augmented reality to recreate the scene of the first lamp lighting in Shanghai back in 1882. Enhancements will be made to popular installations from last year, such as the Light and Shadow Breathing Bulb, an eight-meter-tall semi-transparent LED screen, and the mesmerizing Phantom Light Wonderland.

At the main site in the West Bund area of Xuhui District, visitors will experience a 3,000-square-meter naked-eye 3D dome projection and an AI tour guide named Xiaolingguang from September 19 to 28. The Model Space at West Bund will also host an international symposium focused on light and shadow art.

Each of the 16 sub-venues will showcase distinctive attractions. Highlights include the Double Tower Laser Sky Screen Show at Science Gate in Pudong and the Skyline Spectrum Symphony Show in Lujiazui. Additionally, the streets of Jing’an will feature “Insight Into 220 Caves,” an exhibit inspired by the ancient Dunhuang grottoes, offering an immersive cultural experience.

Last year, Shanghai recorded 4.03 million nighttime visits, leading the nation’s night economy index. This year’s festival aims to unlock new spending opportunities, foster industry collaboration, and revitalize the city’s luminous appeal through diverse “Light + Industry” initiatives.