The first Shanghai International Electronic Music Festival, also known as the 2024 Budweiser Storm Electronic Music Festival, concluded in spectacular fashion at the Shanghai International Circuit on Oct 3.

Fireworks light up the night as the crowd enjoys the electronic music festival in Shanghai. [Photo/Shanghai Observer]

The festival, part of the inaugural Shanghai Summer International Consumption Season, drew 40,000 attendees over two days from Oct 2 to 3 and left a lasting impression on electronic music fans.

With its thrilling blend of rhythm, lights, and passion, the event added a vibrant touch to Shanghai's National Day holiday celebrations.

Top global DJs like Hardwell, DJ Snake, and Oliver Heldens headlined the festival, alongside virtual idol Luo Tianyi, who delivered a groundbreaking crossover performance. The festival's futuristic, cyberpunk-themed stages – complete with sci-fi visuals and cutting-edge lighting – immersed fans in a unique, high-energy experience.

In addition to the music, the festival boosted local commerce, attracting 45,000 visitors to nearby shopping areas and tourist spots in Jiading district. The average spending was 3,500 yuan (about $500) per person, a 55 percent increase compared to the same period in previous years.

The festival has been widely recognized for highlighting the city's openness and commitment to nurturing emerging cultural industries, reinforcing Shanghai's position as an international cultural and tourism destination.