Shanghai's first-ever International Light Festival made a dazzling debut on Sept 19, alongside the 2024 Shining Shanghai Festival in Jing'an district.

Organizers say this year's Shining Shanghai Festival promises to be even more spectacular than last year's, which attracted over 20 billion online views.

Expanding to West Nanjing Road, the ongoing festival boasts vibrant light zones that blend shopping, entertainment, and cultural experiences.

Visitors can look forward to a captivating night that transforms the city into a beacon of excitement.

From Sept 19 to 27, the south plaza of the Shanghai Exhibition Center will feature Jing'an in Two Minutes – The Power of Light, a short film showcasing the district's energy through breathtaking 3D visuals.

From Sept 28 to Oct 7, the Shining Shanghai 2024 International Light Art Open Call will display 28 award-winning 3D mapping works, taking the experience of light to new heights.

In addition, on Sept 10, Zhang Yuan in Jing'an launched the Sanxingdui Fantasy Carnival with Daliren – a significant bronze statue from the Sanxingdui archaeological site in Sichuan province – making its global debut.

Running to Oct 20, this event combines ancient Shu culture with modern Shanghai style, offering unique creative products and immersive exhibits designed by teams from China and France.

To further enhance the experience, Jing'an Park will host an innovative Chinese culture exhibition from Sept 28 to Oct 7. Using AI face-swapping technology, visitors will be transported into ancient paintings to experience life as a scholar during the Song Dynasty (960-1279).

The 2024 Shining Shanghai Festival will also introduce a Phantom of the Opera-themed bus, running between the light displays on West Nanjing Road and the Suhewan area from Sept 28 to Oct 7. This interactive bus experience will seek to combine theater and digital content for an unforgettable ride.

Additionally, from Sept 23 to Oct 21, the A Green Trip exhibition at CITIC Pacific Plaza will highlight eco-friendly art and sustainability – exploring environmental issues through interactive experiences to promote a greener lifestyle.