The 2025 Shanghai Tourism Festival brought color and energy to the Bund in Huangpu district with its spectacular float parade on the night of Sept 13. Featuring 25 floats and 24 performance teams from around the world, the event celebrated culture, tourism and community.

This year's festival aims to position Shanghai as a dynamic global stage for city life and a gateway to experience China. The parade featured beautifully designed floats that integrated technology, culture and intangible cultural heritage, lighting up the city with vibrant displays.

Among the performers was Zhang Chumeng from the Yao ethnic group in Ningyuan county, Hunan province. Zhang's team highlighted their traditional costumes and dances, adorning big hats, embroidered scarves and balls to symbolize blessings.

"We hope to let more people know about our ethnic group, inherit our culture, and understand the vitality of girls from the Yao ethnic group," Zhang said.

The parade also included a diverse array of artistic performances such as brass bands, bagpipes, folk dances, cheerleading and gymnastics, showcasing Shanghai's openness and inclusiveness.

Running from July 5 to Oct 6, the festival employs smart platforms and multilingual services to enhance visitor experiences, reinforcing Shanghai's status as China's premier inbound tourism destination.

With initiatives like 240-hour visa-free transit, the festival continues to welcome international guests, offering diverse experiences and celebrating Shanghai's role as a global dialogue hub.