The 2026 Qingpu Cultural and Tourism Festival and autumn consumption season kicked off on Sept 28 at the second phase of Bailian Outlets Qingpu, inviting visitors to explore the district's water towns, autumn scenery, and leisure activities.

Running through Oct 28, the festival features around 100 special events in collaboration with about 1,000 businesses.

Activities span ancient towns, lakeside areas, rural villages, and shopping districts, as Qingpu aims to become a leading destination for international visitors interested in ancient towns and a preferred short-break getaway for urban residents.

A series of tourism benefits was unveiled at the opening ceremony, including an upgraded Qingpu Pass and 12 million yuan ($1.79 million) in consumption vouchers for the autumn campaign.

Among the activities, the "Artistic Charm of Jiangnan" immersive cultural season in Zhujiajiao Ancient Town brought Kunqu opera and hanfu experiences to the water town, turning traditional opera into an open-air performance. The Qingpu sub-venues of the 3rd Shanghai International Light Festival feature prismatic light installations, telling stories of the district through light and color.

Other programs have included cultural activities at Panlong Xintiandi, autumn exploration in Jinze Ancient Town, and light shows and night tours at Oriental Land and Kezhi Garden, enriching holiday experiences.

Golden rice fields define Qingpu's autumn. The 18th Liantang Water Bamboo Festival featured camping, night village tours, and ancient town gatherings. The 7th Qingpu Autumn Food Festival in late October will highlight freshwater delicacies and seasonal harvest ingredients from Dianshan Lake.

Rural coffee celebrations, harvest carnivals, and rice-themed festivals are also part of the program, encouraging visitors to explore countryside scenery and local produce.

October also brings a packed calendar of concerts and performances in Qingpu. The 2026 Qingpu Waterfront Music Festival brought two outdoor concerts to Shangda Central Park during the National Day holiday, featuring classic orchestral works from films and choral performances.

Outdoor offerings take advantage of Qingpu's forests, lakes, and ecological corridors. Two themed trails for day hikes and short getaways have been introduced. The Qingpu Autumn Rural Homestay Season offers discounted lodging packages paired with rice paddy sightseeing, wellness trips, and outdoor sports. Camping activities at Qingxi Country Park and the Hongqiao Flower Valley Flower Tourism Festival are also part of the program, alongside lakeside leisure activities.

Source: Qingpu district government