The inaugural Shanghai International Light Festival, themed "Travel in Light", kicked off on Sept 19 at the Shanghai Exhibition Center and will run to Oct 18.

The opening ceremony dazzled attendees with highlights such as a breathtaking naked-eye 3D dome projection in the central hall and a spectacular outdoors light show on the neoclassical architecture of the south square.

Guests from China and abroad explored exhibitions like the Shanghai Landscape Lighting Achievement Exhibition and the Global Landscape Lighting Industry Exhibition, along with the "Shining Jing'an" themed West Garden.

As a major public cultural event, the Shanghai International Light Festival celebrates the city's urban renewal, unique character and vibrant culture. It seeks to refresh Shanghai's image and position the city as a new hub for nighttime tourism.

The festival features more than 129 themed events at the main venue and 12 other locations citywide.

Attendees can enjoy everything from architectural light shows and mesmerizing art installations to musical light concerts, flower parades and cultural exhibitions.

With 119 venues – spanning bustling shopping areas, cultural landmarks, tourist hotspots, transport hubs, sports facilities, exhibition centers and parks – the festival promises to be an immersive experience of stunning lights and sounds for both locals and visitors alike.