Beijing Canal Arts Festival Opens in Tongzhou with International Participation
The 4th Beijing International Canal Arts Fest opened on September 24 in Tongzhou, celebrating cultural exchange and showcasing international art.
BEIJING, September 27, 2026 – The 4th Beijing International Canal Arts Fest officially opened on September 24 along the Grand Canal in Tongzhou. Held for the fourth time since its inception in 2018, the festival aims to promote cultural and artistic exchange between China and other canal nations, and to integrate culture with tourism.
The event focuses on preserving the Grand Canal as a living heritage site and passing on its legacy, aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. It seeks to drive urban renewal through art, gathering artistic talents from around the globe and deepening international cultural and tourism exchange. The opening ceremony was attended by over 150 Chinese and international guests, including artists from Albania, Ivory Coast, Norway, Sweden, and Turkey.
The opening ceremony featured a cross-border program with performers from China and abroad, including the Rongxiang Sanxian Chamber Orchestra, FETNO from Bucharest, Norwegian singer Maria Arredondo, and New Zealand singer-songwriter Luke Thompson. The festival runs until September 27, presenting 22 performances by 14 ensembles from 13 countries.
A "Canal × Mid-Autumn" bazaar is also taking place, featuring 60 stalls across "Bites," "Finds," and "Vibes" sections, offering global cuisine, international crafts, and interactive experiences. Additionally, a video titled "The Canal in Beijing" premiered alongside ten "Strolling Beijing" cultural tours along the Grand Canal.