Celebrate cinema this Labor Day holiday with a carnival in Qingdao

With China's five-day Labor Day break underway, cinemas in the country are abuzz with a fresh lineup of films, including everything from explosive action to heartfelt dramas. But before heading to the theater, audiences can immerse themselves in a festive movie spirit with the Love Watching Movies Carnival, a themed event celebrating cinema's power to entertain, inspire and connect.

Co-hosted by China Media Group (CMG), the China Film Administration and the Qingdao Municipal Government, the carnival will premiere at 7:30 pm on May 3 via CMG's streaming platform Yangshipin. It brings together hosts, filmmakers, musicians and Olympic athletes for a showcase that includes film recommendations, interviews and musical performances. Three themed sections guide audiences through a journey where film meets new consumer culture and a growing entertainment economy.

Veteran Hong Kong actress Kara Wai, winner of the 20th Huabiao Film Award for Best Actress, appears at the carnival with her trophy in hand. She stars in the Labor Day holiday release "The Dumpling Queen" and shared that she’d grown up in Hong Kong's Wan Chai, the setting of the film.

A highlight of the evening will be the launch of the "2025 Movie Wishlist," featuring upcoming releases across genres such as history, sci-fi, animation, action, comedy and mystery. The list is an indication of fresh momentum ahead in the Chinese film market.

More than a celebration of movies, the carnival reflects the increasing role of films in driving consumption and boosting economic activity. Initiatives like "Travel with Movies" and the "Film Consumption Year" are turning cinematic experiences into engines of tourism and retail growth.

As a UNESCO City of Film, Qingdao is at the heart of this transformation. With its cinematic heritage and urban charm, the city is evolving from a film backdrop into a true cultural destination. To capture this spirit, the carnival features an innovative twist: Viewers can expect to watch a film-themed bus tour that links the main venue with scenic city spots, transforming Qingdao into an open-air stage.

Blending films, performances, travel, and community, the carnival is a nationwide celebration of cinematic storytelling and the joy of the big screen.