The 2026 Qingpu Cultural and Tourism Festival and autumn consumption season kicked off on Monday in the second phase of Bailian Outlets Qingpu, inviting tourists to immerse themselves in the charming autumn water town scenery and leisure experiences across the district.

Running through October 28, the event rolls out nearly 100 special events, partnering with thousands of businesses.

Activities span ancient towns, lakeside zones, rural villages and shopping districts, as the district eyes China's top inbound tourist destination of ancient towns and a preferred short-break getaway for urban residents.

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

Among the activities, "Artistic Charm of Jiangnan" immersive cultural season in Zhujiajiao Ancient Town brings Kunqu opera and hanfu experiences to the water town, turning traditional opera into an open-air performance. The Qingpu venue of the 3rd Shanghai International Light Festival features prismatic light installations, unfolding stories of the district and presenting a visual feast.

Additional night programs include "Heritage Now Festival" at Panlong Xintiandi, autumn exploration in Jinze Ancient Town, 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 features 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 will also roll out across villages, 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 will bring two distinctive outdoor concerts to Shangda Central Park this National Day holiday, offering a blend of classic cinematic orchestral works and choral performances.

Qingpu tianshange (folk songs sung in the field by farmers), a national intangible cultural heritage item, will also be featured.

Outdoor offerings take advantage of Qingpu's forests, lakes and ecological corridors. Two themed trails for day hikes and multi-day micro-vacations are launched. The Qingpu Autumn Rural Homestay Season offers discounted lodging packages paired with rice paddy sightseeing, wellness trips and outdoor sports. Star camping tours at Qingxi Country Park and the Hongqiao Flower Valley Flower Tourism Festival are also available, alongside lakeside leisure activities.