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 Aug. 3rd, the exhibition is designed around the concept of "integration and co-creation," embodying the idea of beauty in diversity and harmony through mutual appreciation. This year's event brings together more than 650 representative intangible cultural heritage items and is expected to receive 200,000 visits.
At the main venue, the Shihezi Convention and Exhibition Center, six sections have been set up: "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 diverse 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 helps shift intangible cultural heritage presentation beyond short-term exhibitions toward sustained transmission, ensuring that these traditions remain accessible to the public long after the event concludes.
The exhibition uses intangible cultural heritage as a bridge to promote 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 event not only highlights the richness of Xinjiang's cultural heritage but also fosters a sense of shared identity and mutual appreciation among diverse communities.
This year's exhibition is particularly significant as it underscores the growing importance of intangible cultural heritage in regional development and cultural exchange. The inclusion of advanced technologies like XR digital experiences demonstrates how tradition can be combined with innovation to engage younger audiences and preserve heritage in a modern context. The permanent installation at the Bayi Sugar Factory further signals a long-term commitment to cultural preservation, moving beyond the temporary nature of typical exhibitions.
By hosting such a large-scale event, Xinjiang is positioning itself as a hub for cultural tourism and heritage conservation. The expected 200,000 visitors will not only experience the vibrant traditions but also contribute to the local economy and cultural awareness. The exhibition's emphasis on mutual learning and collaboration among practitioners from different regions highlights the unifying power of culture.
As the event continues through August 3rd, it offers a unique opportunity for both locals and tourists to engage with the intangible cultural heritage of Xinjiang and beyond. The diverse programming, from music and dance to culinary delights and interactive workshops, ensures that there is something for everyone, making it a landmark occasion in the region's cultural calendar.
