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 August 3, the exhibition is centered on 'integration and co-creation,' reflecting the idea of beauty in diversity and harmony through mutual appreciation.
The main venue, Shihezi Convention and Exhibition Center, hosts six thematic sections: '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 themed 'Intangible Heritage in Poetry.' These sections offer a wide range of experiences, including performances of Chaoshan Yingge dance and 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 permanently featured. This move aims to shift intangible cultural heritage presentation from short-term exhibitions to sustained transmission, ensuring these traditions are preserved and passed down.
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, it 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 attract 200,000 visits.
This year's exhibition underscores the importance of cultural preservation in Xinjiang and beyond. By highlighting the diversity of intangible cultural heritage, it fosters mutual appreciation and understanding, which is crucial for social harmony. The permanent installation at the Bayi Sugar Factory Cultural and Creative District represents a significant step toward sustainable cultural heritage management, moving beyond temporary displays to create lasting platforms for cultural education and transmission.
The inclusion of cutting-edge technology, such as XR digital experiences, demonstrates how innovation can enhance the appreciation of traditional arts. This blend of tradition and modernity not only attracts younger audiences but also ensures that these cultural practices remain relevant in the digital age.
Moreover, the collaborative spirit of the event, where practitioners from different backgrounds work together, exemplifies the power of cultural exchange in building bridges between communities. It is a model for how heritage can be used as a tool for social cohesion and regional development.
As the exhibition continues through August 3, it is set to leave a lasting impact on both visitors and participants, reinforcing the value of intangible cultural heritage in our shared human experience.
