The performance at the opening ceremony of the art season. [Video provided to gojilin.gov.cn]

The 2026 Changchun Summer Art Season officially kicked off on July 18, as the lights of Siji Nanhe Riverside Park illuminated the summer night. Running for 80 days from June 19 to Sept 6, the citywide event creates a refreshing summer experience centered around Changchun's signature 22 C coolness.

Featuring five major sections covering tourism and leisure, public culture, cultural exhibitions, quality performances, and cross-sector activities, the summer season has introduced more than 100 cultural and tourism events across the city, offering residents and visitors immersive ways to enjoy the season.

The opening ceremony of the art season. [Photo/Tian Jiaxin]

As a highlight of the event, the 2026 Changchun Camping Conference opened at the same time and will run through Aug 9. The event features four-wheel-drive RVs with living, cooking, and travel functions, as well as 19 well-known camping brands from across China.

The Siji Nanhe Intangible Cultural Heritage Market has also opened, showcasing 31 representative intangible cultural heritage projects from Jilin province. Visitors can explore traditional craftsmanship, join interactive experiences, and purchase cultural creative products.

The performing arts lineup adds to the excitement, with pop bands, traditional opera, and animation-themed shows. The Changchun Cultural Tourism Street Music Festival is also returning, bringing online singers and university bands to city landmarks to brighten summer evenings.

Xinmin Avenue has also been upgraded into a new summer destination. The area hosts street concerts, community singing events, vintage car and themed float parades, classic movie screenings, intangible cultural heritage workshops, and local food markets, creating a one-stop experience for visitors.