SHENZHEN has made significant strides in cultural development and exchange, leaving a mark on both domestic and international platforms through a wide array of initiatives. Let’s explore the 10 cultural events that exemplify Shenzhen’s cultural journey in 2023.

1. National-level cultural feasts

In June, Shenzhen hosted two national-level cultural events: the 19th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair and the inaugural Forum on Building China’s Cultural Systems. The cultural fair drew 3,596 governmental groups, cultural institutions, and enterprises, both physically and virtually, showcasing over 120,000 cultural and creative products.

2. Theoretical achievements garner recognition

An event in Beijing shed light on Shenzhen’s role in Chinese modernization, culminating in the publication of a book chronicling the city’s experiences over the past decade. Furthermore, Shenzhen now boasts 51 key research bases in humanities and social sciences, underscoring its scholarly contributions to cultural advancement.

3. Original literary works

The Shenzhen dance drama, “Wing Chun,” premiered in 34 cities, including Beijing and Singapore, to rave reviews through 132 performances. Another production, the science fiction-inspired “AI in Love,” captivated audiences at the World Science Fiction Convention in Chengdu.

4. Elaborate coverage of significant events

Shenzhen media organizations have diligently covered and highlighted pivotal events such as the China Hi-Tech Fair, China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair, and Shenzhen Global Investment Promotion Conference. The city government organized over 40 press conferences to disseminate authoritative information.

5. Global promotion of Shenzhen Stories

In June, Shenzhen launched a program aimed at sharing the city’s narratives, enterprises, brands, traditional culture, and cultural endeavors with global audiences. Shenzhen News Group and Shenzhen Media Group established global communication centers. The EyeShenzhen English portal was upgraded and became a multilingual portal in June 2023, providing residents, investors, and tourists with all-inclusive and up-to-date information about Shenzhen in nine foreign languages.

6. Collaborative events bridging SZ, HK residents

Shenzhen and Hong Kong jointly organized events that encouraged the active participation of residents from both cities. This collaboration extended to events during the 24th Shenzhen Reading Month, as well as the Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Macao Design Competition for Young Talents, fostering inter-city cultural exchange.

7. Care projects

Shenzhen Project Care, an initiative promoting benevolence, has curated 22 impactful events spanning 20 years, encompassing health care, social assistance, education, and cultural initiatives. Over this period, the project has organized over 34,000 activities, engaging millions of participants.

8. Diversified cultural life

Shenzhen curated a Chinese urban folk song gala series named “My Town, My Folk,” solidifying the city’s standing as a hub for folk song creation and performance. The 2023 Shenzhen Belt and Road International Music Festival Opening Concert featured over 1,000 artists from 30 countries and regions.

9. Successful hosting of Shenzhen Design Week

In April, the 2023 Shenzhen Design Week brought together 5,198 design works from 22 countries and regions, alongside 300 renowned designers and representatives from global design organizations. The event drew over 600,000 participants.

10. Promoting positive city image

In 2023, Shenzhen made strides in promoting a positive image and fostering favorable public opinions.

(Chen Siqi)