Chongqing—On the evening of June 16, the 3rd "2025 Art & Culture Week of Twin Cities" officially opened in the Jiulongpo District of Chongqing, attracting 220 leaders, business representatives, and local residents from both Chengdu and Chongqing. The event's theme, "Mountains and Waters Connected, Cultural Roots Merged," and the main concept of "Chengdu-Chongqing Connection · Bashu Affection," brought a vibrant cultural arts celebration to life.

A New Vision for Cultural Cooperation and Twin City Synergy

At the opening ceremony, speeches were delivered by Cheng Biao, Standing Committee Member of Jiulongpo District, and Ma Zongxiang, Vice Mayor of Chengdu’s Xindu District. Both leaders highlighted the deepening cooperation between Chengdu and Chongqing in industries, cultural tourism, talent development, and other key areas, particularly the success of the "XinLong CP" collaboration, which has driven the advancement of the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle. Cheng Biao emphasized, "The Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle, as a national strategic initiative, has injected unprecedented development momentum into the Bashu region, while also opening up a vast stage for cultural and artistic exchanges between the two cities." 

The intangible cultural heritage on display at the event: Li's Twisted Floral Headpiece. (Photo/ Kang Zheng)

A Cultural Feast Showcasing Confidence

Top artistic talents from the Sichuan Conservatory of Music, the Chongqing Opera House, and other institutions participated in the themed gala, presenting a diverse range of outstanding performances. Programs such as the classic Chongqing folk song "Sweet Sorghum Stalks" and the fast-paced "My Foreign Son-in-law" from Chengdu’s Xindu District vividly showcase the rich cultural charm of the region. The Chongqing Sichuan Opera Troupe presented a mesmerizing opera show, "Intoxicating Sichuan Opera," with a rotating cast of characters that showcased the captivating charm of Bashu opera. The performance demonstrated all aspects of traditional Sichuan opera, bringing the intangible cultural heritage to life. The Chongqing Opera House also delivered a heartfelt performance of "Born for the People," intertwining symphonic and folk melodies to deeply honor the spirit of Bashu.

Performance by Young Singers from Chengdu and Chongqing. (Photo provided by the organizer)

Collaborating to Create a New Chapter in Bashu Culture

The series of events will continue until June 22, featuring a diverse range of activities across traditional arts, contemporary creations, and community culture. The close collaboration between Jiulongpo and Xindu District not only promotes the cultural development of Chengdu and Chongqing but also strengthens the artistic exchange and cooperation between the two cities.

In the coming days, the audience will enjoy a variety of performances, including square dance competitions, martial arts demonstrations, and national orchestra concerts. Through this diverse and exciting range of events, the arts week will continue to write a beautiful new chapter in the hearts of the people of both cities, celebrating the vibrant and harmonious Bashu culture.