Shanghai International Arts Festival begins 25th edition

The 25th Shanghai International Arts Festival commenced on October 17, 2026, at the Shanghai Grand Opera House. The month-long cultural event is scheduled to run until November 15, 2026, and is expected to feature nearly 400 activities and approximately 1,100 performances.

The festival includes several Asian premieres, such as the Mariinsky Theatre’s production of Verdi’s ‘Aida’ conducted by Valery Gergiev, the Berlin State Opera’s ‘Der Rosenkavalier’, and the Venice Phoenix Opera’s ‘Tosca’. Additionally, the Bolshoi Ballet will perform ‘Don Quixote’ at the Shanghai Culture Square from October 21 to 23.

This year’s edition introduces a new digital art section showcasing works from emerging international artists. The festival aims to strengthen Shanghai’s international standing as a major cultural hub by facilitating exchanges between traditional and contemporary artistic expressions.