Chongqing - On July 22, Chongqing's Guanyinqiao Pedestrian Street hosted the grand launch of the 2024 Chongqing Night Life Festival, featuring over 200 special promotions for a summer extravaganza for locals and tourists.

The 2024 Chongqing Night Life Festival has kicked off on July 22. (Photo/Chongqing Municipal Commission of Commerce)

This year's festival features automobiles, home appliances, furnishings, decorations, and food and beverages like beer, coffee, and baked goods. It highlights traditional Chinese products and trendy new items while integrating exhibitions, tourism, and entertainment into the night-time shopping experience.

"Chongqing is a key consumption hub in the western region and is rapidly developing into an international consumption center city," said Yang Nie, Deputy Director General of the Department of Market Operation and Consumption Promotion at the Ministry of Commerce.

Yang highlighted the city's economic achievements, with total sales reaching 1.5 trillion yuan (about USD 206.2 billion) in 2023, ranking second among major cities. He also noted that retail sales grew by 3.9% in the first half of this year, slightly above the national average.

On the evening of July 22, Guanyinqiao Pedestrian Street was bustling with people. (Photo/Chongqing Municipal Commission of Commerce)

During the launch, several areas were designated as Chongqing Night-time Economy Demonstration Zones, including Shancheng Lane, 9th Street, Baguo Assembly Hall, Ziwei Road, and Tiansheng City. Prominent shopping districts like Guanyinqiao Pedestrian Street, Yangjiaping Pedestrian Street, and Longfor Chongqing Times Paradise Walk were also recognized as top pedestrian streets.

Chongqing Night-time Economy Demonstration Zones 2023. (Graphic/Zheng Ran)

The event spotlighted local celebrities and influencers, including musician Bridge (D.M.G), the Can band, radio host Zhang Jian, and blogger Lisa, who were honored as Chongqing Night Life Star Promoters.

Lisa, a ten-year resident of Chongqing from Ukraine, praised the city's beauty, calling it one of the most stunning worldwide. She highlighted her favorite spots, including the vibrant 9th Street for nightlife and iconic sites like Jiefangbei and Hongyadong for urban exploration.

She also encouraged visitors to venture beyond the city center to experience Chongqing's natural beauty, suggesting cycling along Beibin Road and Nanbin Road and exploring the region's caves and rivers.