The 36th Qingdao International Beer Festival officially opened on July 17 at Golden Beach Beer City in Qingdao West Coast New Area. As night fell, a spectacular light-and-shadow extravaganza began. Drone light shows, fireworks, colorful lantern displays, immersive light shows, glasses-free 3D visuals and the flying phoenix performance came together to create a 360-degree nighttime visual experience, presenting a richly layered coastal festival nightscape.
A fleet of 1,500 drones illuminated the night sky, forming dazzling formations like a constellation of stars. Across the vast sky, light and motion intertwined to create a dynamic visual masterpiece, blending the passion of the festival, the depth of the ocean and the creativity of modern technology. The drone light show is presented twice every night at 8:35 p.m. and 10:05 p.m.
A spectacular aerial fireworks show lit up the sea, with brilliant fireworks and shimmering reflections dancing across the water. The sky and ocean merged into one breathtaking scene, creating a romantic and festive atmosphere. The fireworks show is staged twice every night at 8:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.
The lantern installations have received a complete upgrade, becoming brighter and more dreamlike than ever. A giant celebration flower basket stands at the center, while four themed lantern corridors extend in different directions. Shades of red, orange, yellow and green intertwine in carefully designed layers. Strolling through the area feels like walking through a magnificent corridor woven from light and color, where every step lands on a poetic path of brilliance. The Starry Avenue lantern display is open from 6:00 p.m. to midnight.
As night falls, the lights transform into a flowing river of brilliance, shifting gracefully with the rhythm of music — sometimes surging like waves, sometimes gentle like water. The dazzling glow spills across the streets and lanes, as if a galaxy has descended to earth. Every step along the way reveals another breathtaking view. The Starry Avenue light show runs from 7:00 p.m. to midnight.
Without the need for any special equipment, visitors can experience a spectacular glasses-free 3D show on the giant screen. Beer foam appears to burst beyond the screen, marine creatures seem within reach, and the futuristic atmosphere of a cyber city emerges before their eyes. This immersive experience breaks the boundary between the virtual and real worlds, allowing visitors to witness the transformation of the “impossible” into something seemingly within reach. The glasses-free 3D display is available from 10:00 a.m. to midnight.
The exterior wall of the Qingxi Golden Beer Craft Brewery Experience Hall has been transformed into a giant light-and-shadow canvas. Brilliant colors intertwine, spread and leap across the building, making the entire structure appear alive. Through the language of light, it tells the vibrant story of Golden Beach Beer City from day to night. The large-scale “Colorful Beer City” light show runs from 7:00 p.m. to midnight.
A magnificent mechanical phoenix takes flight, its luminous wings shimmering and its tail flames dancing, bringing the night sky vividly to life. Combining elegance and grandeur, the mythical creature appears to have flown out of ancient legends, adding a touch of fantasy to this summer celebration. The phoenix flight performances take place at 7:30 p.m., 8:20 p.m. and 9:10 p.m.
According to the reporter, Golden Beach Beer City in Qingdao West Coast New Area has established a dedicated “Creator Service Area” on the east side of the first floor of Hajiu Bookstore, providing convenient services for creators participating in the festival. The service area operates from 10:30 a.m. to noon and from 2:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
This summer, the festival is not only about beer, but also a grand invitation to experience light, dreams and celebration. From July 17 to August 15, visitors are invited to Golden Beach Beer City in Qingdao West Coast New Area for a summer night rendezvous where light and shadow intertwine — a journey that dazzles the eyes and delights the heart.
Editor: Guo Nianli/ Liu Yameng/ Wang Yulin
