The 2026 "Xinjiang, A Land of Wonders" themed exhibition supporting Xinjiang through intangible cultural heritage opened on July 30 in Shihezi City, Xinjiang, marking the largest edition to date. Running through August 3rd, the event is centered on "integration and co-creation," aiming to embody the beauty of diversity and harmony through mutual appreciation.
At the main venue, the Shihezi Convention and Exhibition Center, six sections have been established: "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 array of experiences, including Chaoshan Yingge dance, Xinjiang Muqam, heritage food tastings, XR digital experiences, and interactive educational activities.
The sub-venue, the Bayi Sugar Factory Cultural and Creative District, will permanently feature seven intangible cultural heritage items, including Nanjing Yunjin brocade and Hainan Li brocade. This move aims to transition intangible cultural heritage presentation from short-term exhibitions to sustained transmission, ensuring these traditions are preserved for future generations.
The event 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, the exhibition 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 year's exhibition not only highlights the rich cultural diversity of Xinjiang but also emphasizes the importance of preserving and promoting intangible cultural heritage in a modern context. Through innovative displays and interactive experiences, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to engage with these traditions, fostering a deeper appreciation for cultural heritage and its relevance in today's world.
