Children show their paper-cut works during the 2026 Nantong Culture and Tourism Carnival. [Photo/WeChat account: ntwgx6]

The 2026 Nantong Culture and Tourism Carnival wrapped up on Oct 7 at Nantong Yangtze River Sports Park, after seven days that drew 565,000 visitors and 21.15 million yuan ($3.15 million) in on-site sales, up 14.1 percent and 112.7 percent year-on-year, respectively.

Branded home textile sales, online and offline, exceeded 4 million yuan, while branded car transactions topped 10 million yuan. Online exposure surpassed 100 million views, with more than 100 reports from national and provincial media outlets, including CCTV.

The carnival, targeted at younger audiences, featured a popular toy intellectual property, esports challenges, intelligent fortune-telling and street basketball. It also served as a secondary venue for a Jiangsu Football City League match and hosted the opening of the 2026 Nantong Amateur Football League.

The event highlighted a pet-friendly theme. A citywide "Find the Little Furballs" campaign placed dog sculptures across streets and on the riverbank, while many residents brought their pets.

The carnival also combined culture and tourism with technology, wellness, industry and performance. Two thousand drones staged 3D light shows for seven nights. A traditional Chinese medicine zone offered intelligent health checks and herbal teas. Local home textile brands promoted "Quality Home Textiles, Made in Nantong". Stage programs ranged from symphony and puppetry to jazz and acrobatics.

Nearly 40 food stalls offered Taiwan and local Nantong specialties, generating more than 2 million yuan in sales. The event is part of Nantong's efforts to boost autumn consumption and extend tourism benefits across the city.