The 2026 'Xinjiang, A Land of Wonders' themed exhibition opened on July 30 in Shihezi City, Xinjiang, marking the largest edition of the event to date. Running through August 3, the exhibition is centered on 'integration and co-creation,' showcasing the diversity and harmony of intangible cultural heritage through mutual appreciation.
The main venue, the Shihezi Convention and Exhibition Center, features six thematic sections: 'Intangible Heritage: Music and Dance,' 'Intangible Heritage: A Feast of Local Flavors,' 'Intangible Heritage: Technology and Innovation,' 'Intangible Heritage: Learning and Transmission,' 'Intangible Heritage: Cultural and Creative Market,' and an interactive exhibition and performances themed 'Intangible Heritage in Poetry.' These sections offer a wide range of experiences, including Chaoshan Yingge dance, Xinjiang Muqam, heritage food tastings, XR digital experiences, and interactive educational activities.
At the sub-venue, the Bayi Sugar Factory Cultural and Creative District, seven intangible cultural heritage items, including Nanjing Yunjin brocade and Hainan Li brocade, will be featured on a permanent basis. This move aims to transition intangible cultural heritage presentation from short-term exhibitions to sustained transmission, ensuring these traditions are preserved and passed down.
Using intangible cultural heritage as a bridge, the event promotes interaction, exchange, and integration among all ethnic groups. By encouraging practitioners to learn from one another and collaborate, it injects new vitality into the safeguarding and transmission of these cultural treasures.
The exhibition brings together more than 650 representative intangible cultural heritage items and is expected to receive 200,000 visits. This large-scale gathering not only highlights the richness of China's cultural heritage but also underscores the importance of community engagement in preserving these traditions.
The event's focus on integration and co-creation reflects a broader trend in cultural preservation, where technology, education, and interactive experiences are used to make heritage more accessible and engaging. The inclusion of XR digital experiences and interactive educational activities demonstrates how modern technology can be harnessed to attract younger audiences and ensure the relevance of these ancient traditions in the contemporary world.
The permanent installations at the Bayi Sugar Factory Cultural and Creative District are particularly significant, as they represent a shift from temporary exhibitions to lasting cultural spaces. This approach not only provides ongoing opportunities for public engagement but also supports the livelihoods of artisans and practitioners, contributing to the local economy and cultural sustainability.
The exhibition also serves as a platform for cross-cultural dialogue, bringing together diverse ethnic groups and fostering mutual understanding. By highlighting the beauty of diversity, the event aligns with broader national efforts to promote social harmony and cultural exchange.
As the exhibition continues through August 3, visitors will have the opportunity to experience the richness of China's intangible cultural heritage firsthand. The event's expected 200,000 visits underscores its significance as a major cultural gathering, drawing attention to the importance of preserving and promoting these living traditions for future generations.
