The 2025 Shanghai International Light Festival is scheduled from Sept 22 to Oct 8. Anchored in Xuhui district, the festival will extend its reach with 13 additional venues across 16 districts, creating a city-wide celebration of light and shadow art.

The festival kicks off with an opening ceremony on Sept 22 in Qibao Ancient Town, Minhang district. The Minhang sub-venue will center around Qibao town, integrating nearby commercial areas to host a range of activities, all offering an immersive journey into the world of light and shadow.

Highlights

• Lantern treasure hunt: Embark on a magical quest in Qibao Ancient Town, starting at Zhonglou Square. As you navigate landmarks like Kangle Bridge and Yutang Street, search for the "seven treasures": an iron Buddha, a bronze bell, a gold script Lotus Sutra, a Chinese catalpa tree, a jade axe, a gold cockerel, and a pair of jade chopsticks. Successful treasure hunters will be rewarded with unique gifts.
• Light and water dance show: Experience a spellbinding show on North West Street in Qibao, where the existing water curtain landscape becomes a dynamic canvas. This urban theater will feature boat performances and light displays, set against the backdrop of traditional music and local legends by the water.
• Ancient town cultural festival: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of the town from Sept 22 to 24. Meet costumed characters such as scholars, flower sellers, and vendors, appearing every half hour for interactive experiences. Participate in raffles to win lunch and gift vouchers, afternoon tea, and lanterns, with three daily draws offering a variety of food, cultural, and experiential prizes.
• MixC festivities: Discover Shanghai's first urban treehouse-themed landmark at MixC shopping mall, complete with enchanting nighttime light effects. From Sept 19 to 21, enjoy global music performances with a forest-ecology theme, and from Oct 1 to 6, indulge in a holiday food market featuring diverse cuisines, performances, themed stalls, and spice grinding experiences.

In addition to the aforementioned locations, the Hanxiang Water Expo Garden will offer discounted light and shadow show tickets, along with popular nighttime kayaking and paddleboarding adventures. The Powerlong Museum will also provide discounted tickets, inviting visitors to explore its artistic offerings. Other landmarks, including Paradise Walk and Minhang Museum, will illuminate the night, adding to the festival's allure.

Sources: WeChat account of the publicity department of the CPC Minhang district committee at "minhangnews", Shanghai Landscaping and City Appearance Administrative Bureau