The 20th Shanghai Tourism Festival opened on September 12, 2009. As one of the highlights, the float parade kicked off with a splendid fireworks display above the square. The 22 floats from around the world featuring elements from the World Expo, set the record for the number of overseas participants in previous years. [Photo: eastday.com]

This year's Shanghai Tourism Festival has opened at the newly built entertainment park, Songjiang Happy Valley, in southwestern Shanghai.

In the evening of September 12 a grand opening parade featuring multinational performances took place on Huaihai road, the busiest downtown road in Shanghai.

This year's new attractions include new Shanghai Top Eight Scenic Spots, top ten best lighting sightseeing and a massive food festival, said Dao Shuming, the director of Shanghai's Tourism Board.

Meanwhile, a float parade competition, the Shanghai International Music Fireworks Festival and cruises across the Huangpu river will also be offered during the festival.

Folk customs are also being incorporated into the celebration in an effort to showcase the traditions and folk art of Shanghai culture.

As one of the highlights, the float parade kicked off with a splendid fireworks display above the square. The 22 floats from around the world featuring elements from the World Expo, set the record for the number of overseas participants in previous years. The grand float parade pushed the festival to a climax with an interactive performance of Sichuan's fascinating face changing and a zealous Samba dance from Brazil.

Held several days before the National Day Holiday, the 20th Shanghai Tourism Festival embodies the message that the "city makes life better".

It is estimated that eight million tourists from home and abroad will be attracted to the festival, which will run from September 12 to late October.