The Chinese mainland’s National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations took a futuristic turn this year as cities embraced smart robots and drone displays. From lantern-lit plazas to historic squares, technology added new layers of wonder to a time-honored holiday.
In Shanghai, synchronized drone swarms painted the night sky with dynamic patterns, weaving stories of unity and progress above the Huangpu River. Meanwhile, in Chengdu, agile robots joined traditional lion and dragon dances, perfectly matching step and beat with human performers.
According to estimates, over 500 drones participated in a single show in Beijing, forming dazzling shapes—from mooncakes to moonlit landscapes—underscoring how data-driven choreography can transform public spectacles. Startups specializing in autonomous flight technologies reported a 30% jump in inquiries following the holiday.
For many young spectators, the blend of cultural heritage and cutting-edge tech resonated with their vision of a connected future. "Watching drones trace the outline of the full moon was magical," said a university student attending a display in Guangzhou. "It felt like the festival jumped into the 21st century."
Beyond the wow factor, experts see broader impacts: such high-tech showcases boost local tourism, encourage STEM learning, and highlight homegrown innovation. As the festival season winds down, cities are already exploring how smart performances can drive sustainable growth and engage a new generation of global citizens.
Reference(s):
High-tech boosts festive performances during National Day holiday
cgtn.com
