Xiami Music & Arts Festival 2026 showcases diverse international and Chinese acts

The fifth edition of the Xiami Music & Arts Festival, held from August 28 to 30, 2026, in Aranya, a coastal cultural hub in Hebei province, showcased a diverse lineup of international and Chinese artists, drawing tens of thousands of music enthusiasts. This year, Swedish rock band The Cardigans led the international acts, performing alongside 15 Chinese artists.

The three-day festival, themed "Life is not a track, but a journey," featured nine international acts and 15 Chinese artists, offering a mix of indie pop, post-rock, alternative rock, R&B, and dream pop. The Cardigans, known for their three-decade career, delivered a 90-minute set that included hits such as "Lovefool," "Communication," and "Carnival," delighting the audience with their iconic tunes.

In its five-year history, the festival has introduced 33 international acts to Chinese audiences, fostering a global music landscape. This year, it expanded its offerings beyond music, incorporating theater, exhibitions, film screenings, and even designer toys. The festival's growing entertainment portfolio includes collaborations with Damai Entertainment's LUCKY LOOP brand, which launched its first three stores in Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou in August.

The festival's environmental initiatives have also been a focal point, with 500 waste-sorting stations established and over 300,000 plastic bottles collected over the past five years. More than 300,000 attendees have participated in various environmental efforts, highlighting the festival's commitment to sustainability.

Damai Entertainment, a subsidiary of Alibaba Group, continues to expand its commercial footprint, with 30 brands participating in the 2026 edition. The company has worked with 61 brand clients over the past five years, with 18 returning for additional partnerships, representing nearly 30% repeat business. This year, the festival also featured the theme and closing theme songs from the hit film "Dear You," underscoring the growing ties between the company's live entertainment and film divisions.

As the festival enters its fifth year, it remains a significant destination for music and arts enthusiasts in China, offering a blend of local and international talent while promoting sustainability and innovation.