Shanghai Shines Bright in Times Square with Chinese New Year Greetings

Shanghai, one of China’s most dynamic cities, recently brought its vibrant energy to New York’s Times Square with a captivating Chinese New Year greeting. On February 2, 2026, the Nasdaq screen in Times Square displayed a special video which International Services Shanghai created to show different aspects of the city, including its active streets, cultural heritage and its travel options.

The video, designed to attract tourists and business travelers alike, spotlighted the city’s bustling lifestyle, modern architecture, and must-see landmarks such as the iconic Bund and Wukang Road. The lively footage highlighted Shanghai’s appeal as a prime destination for those seeking a blend of traditional Chinese culture and modern city life. Viewers of all ages, whether passersby or travelers already planning their next adventure, were left intrigued by the possibilities Shanghai offers.

A Glimpse into Shanghai’s Global Appeal

Shanghai’s strategic location as one of China’s leading international cities has made it an increasingly popular travel destination. With the introduction of a 240-hour visa-free transit policy for several entry ports, the city has become even more accessible to international tourists. This new development allows visitors to explore Shanghai for up to 10 days without a visa, making it an attractive option for those on business trips or short visits.

The city’s commitment to improving accessibility for tourists has already paid off. Shanghai ranks as one of the top destinations for U.S. travelers looking to explore China. As “China Travel” continues to trend globally, Shanghai’s appeal shows no signs of fading. The city’s thriving cultural scene, combined with its state-of-the-art infrastructure, makes it an ideal location for international visitors to immerse themselves in a truly global metropolis.

The digital greeting on the Nasdaq screen resonated with many, such as Tori Cignarella, a New York resident, who had never visited Shanghai but expressed curiosity about experiencing its culture firsthand. The video sparked her interest in activities like traditional Chinese paper-cutting and Shanghai’s famed tea culture. Similarly, Derek, visiting from Kansas City, expressed excitement about the possibility of visiting Shanghai Disneyland, eager to compare it to other Disney parks in the United States.

Shanghai’s International Appeal Continues to Grow

The video was not only a celebration of the Chinese New Year but also an invitation for travelers from around the world to explore Shanghai. The city’s international charm was evident when Karla Venegas, a travel content creator from Mexico, switched the online platform to Spanish, reflecting Shanghai’s global inclusivity. With the platform supporting ten languages, including Spanish, French, Korean, and English, Shanghai is making it easier for people from diverse backgrounds to explore the city’s travel, work, and study opportunities.

The New Year theme sparked excitement among tourists and locals alike. Maria Angeli from Austin, Texas, responded with a message about a Latin American New Year tradition: running with a suitcase at midnight to ensure good travel luck in the coming year. This gesture highlighted the fusion of cultures and the shared passion for travel that resonates in Shanghai.

Shanghai Lights Up New York with an Invitation to Explore

Shanghai’s special greeting in Times Square was more than just a celebration of the Chinese New Year; it was a dynamic showcase of what the city has to offer to international travelers. From its rich cultural traditions to its modern attractions, Shanghai continues to captivate visitors from all over the world. With convenient visa-free transit options and a wide array of cultural experiences, it’s clear why Shanghai is one of China’s most sought-after destinations.

The video presents an exciting invitation to Shanghai while showing all its attractions that visitors can easily reach. The city will maintain its international appeal because more travellers discover Shanghai’s vibrant cultural heritage.

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Amazing Thailand Chinese New Year 2026 Celebrates the Golden Horse Year and Strengthens Thailand-China Diplomatic Relations

Thailand is gearing up for an unforgettable celebration of the Chinese New Year 2026, with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) announcing a series of events across the country under the theme “Amazing Thailand Chinese New Year.” This year marks the Golden Horse year and the 51st anniversary of Thailand-China diplomatic relations, setting the stage for an event that will showcase vibrant cultural performances, traditional festivals, and large-scale celebrations. With flagship events in Bangkok and Hat Yai, supported by festivities in Nakhon Sawan and Suphan Buri, TAT’s initiative is expected to drive travel demand and reaffirm Thailand’s position as a leading destination for Chinese New Year celebrations outside of mainland China.

The grand announcement was made at TAT Headquarters in Bangkok, attended by prominent officials including Mr. Yang Xiaolong, Cultural Counsellor of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Thailand, and Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, along with representatives from regional provinces and the Tourist Police Bureau. Their collective participation highlights the strong cooperation among local and national institutions to deliver an event of national significance.

Bangkok: A Dazzling Display of Culture and Tradition

From February 7 to March 1, Yaowarat Road in Bangkok will come alive with stunning festive illuminations. With the theme “Ride the Fortune, Share the Future,” this iconic street will transform from Odeon Circle to Chaloem Buri Intersection into a spectacle of lights, drawing both locals and international visitors alike. The illuminations will be on display daily from 18:00 to 23:00 hrs, creating a dynamic evening atmosphere and setting the tone for the celebrations.

Siam Paragon will be the epicenter of the celebrations, hosting the Amazing Thailand Happy Chinese New Year 2026 from February 14 to 18. This five-day festival will run from 16:00 to 22:00 hrs each day and kick off with an auspicious Thai-Chinese greeting ceremony on February 14. A major highlight will be the spectacular lantern displays, showcasing the skill of Chinese artisans and their rich traditions. Cultural performances by renowned troupes from Beijing, Chongqing, Henan, and Fujian provinces will add to the festival’s festive flair.

Festival-goers will also have the chance to participate in a variety of activities, such as Chinese lantern crafting, Chinese calligraphy, and khon mask painting. For those interested in astrology, there will be opportunities to explore Chinese astrology and enjoy traditional arts like Chinese paper cutting and Thai embroidery. Exclusive performances will feature famous Chinese artist Zhu Zhengting and popular Thai artists including Daou Pittaya, Klear, Better Weather, and many others, promising a diverse entertainment lineup for all ages.

Hat Yai: A Southern Thai Celebration of Culture and Tradition

Hat Yai, in Songkhla, is also preparing to host a unique celebration for Amazing Thailand Chinese New Year 2026, from February 17 to 20. The festivities along Saneha Nusorn Road will bring to life the region’s cultural and traditional ties to China, with performances from Fujian Province, acrobatic shows, and the ever-popular lion dance. The night-time light displays will add an enchanting glow to the celebration, providing a festive atmosphere for both regional and cross-border travelers. This event aims to position Hat Yai as a key tourism hub in Southern Thailand, drawing in visitors from neighboring countries and reinforcing the city’s tourism appeal.

Nationwide Celebrations: Extending the Festivities Beyond the Main Cities

While Bangkok and Hat Yai take center stage, TAT is also supporting celebrations in other parts of the country, particularly those with a strong Thai-Chinese heritage. In Nakhon Sawan, the Chao Pho–Chao Mae Pak Nam Pho procession will take place from February 10 to 21, showcasing the region’s deep-rooted cultural traditions. Meanwhile, Suphan Buri will celebrate the Chinese New Year with the “18 Years of the Heavenly Dragon” festival at the Dragon Descendants Museum on February 17 and 18, further expanding the reach of the festival beyond the major urban centers.

These regional events are part of a broader strategy by TAT to spread the benefits of tourism throughout the country, ensuring that the festive season boosts local economies and tourism sectors nationwide.

A Collective Effort to Boost Thai Tourism

The Amazing Thailand Chinese New Year 2026 festival is made possible through the collaboration of a wide network of public and private-sector partners. Key sponsors include Siam Paragon, ICONSIAM, CentralWorld, The Mall Group, and Thai Beverage Public Company Limited. This strong partnership aims to stimulate travel flows, encourage longer visitor stays, and help distribute tourism revenue more evenly across the country, benefiting both popular and lesser-known destinations.

A Prosperous Travel Forecast for Chinese New Year 2026

With the Chinese New Year travel period set from February 13 to 22, TAT forecasts that Thailand will welcome approximately 1.25 million international visitors, a 10% increase from the previous year. Additionally, domestic travel is expected to see 2.3 million trips, a 3% year-on-year growth. The total projected tourism revenue during this period is expected to reach 42.23 billion Baht, representing a 13% increase from 2025. This growth underscores the strategic importance of major festivals like Chinese New Year in advancing Thailand’s quality-led tourism agenda and ensuring a year-round tourism flow that benefits both visitors and the local economy.

A Bright Future for Thailand’s Tourism Industry

With its exciting lineup of events, vibrant cultural showcases, and strong institutional backing, Amazing Thailand Chinese New Year 2026 is set to be a landmark celebration. It not only honors the deep ties between Thailand and China but also exemplifies Thailand’s continued efforts to position itself as a leading global tourism destination. By tapping into the growing trend of Chinese New Year travel, TAT is further solidifying Thailand’s reputation as a cultural hub, ensuring that it remains a top choice for travelers seeking memorable and meaningful experiences.

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