The inaugural National Child-Friendly Art Carnival commenced on Aug 1 in Chongchuan district, Nantong, Jiangsu province. Children from 40 cities nationwide gathered with art education experts and community leaders to celebrate the opening of this landmark children's art event.

The inaugural National Child-Friendly Art Carnival commences on Aug 1 in Chongchuan district, Nantong. [Photo/WeChat account: chongchuanonline]

The plaza was transformed into a vibrant artistic playground, where colorful installations harmonized with children’s joyful expressions. Through brushes, cameras, and crafts, young participants put a unique spin on urban cultural heritage, bridging generational divides and fostering cross-regional dialogues.

Centered on the theme "Children's Art + Urban Culture", the carnival showcased urban charm through exhibitions, interactive activities, and public initiatives.

It launched the nation's first "Subway Mobile Exhibition", featuring synchronized displays of artworks from young participants across 20 stations on Nantong's Subway Lines 1 and 2, which will run until Oct 7.

Highlight events of the carnival also included the debut of child-friendly art-themed metro tickets, a Lion Dance celebration show, and cultural tourism promotions for Chongchuan district, which blended traditional heritage with contemporary artistry, earning resounding applause from attendees.

Additionally, about 30 stalls showcased friendly-themed cultural creative markets from 40 cities, alongside Nantong's local cultural innovations, traditional cultural displays, and Jiangsu Football City League booths, highlighting dazzling regional specialties that vividly illustrated the richness of local cultures.