The 35th Qingdao International Beer Festival kicks off at Golden Beach Beer City in Qingdao West Coast New Area, Shandong province on July 18. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The 35th Qingdao International Beer Festival opened on July 18 in Qingdao West Coast New Area, Shandong province, marking the start of a 30-day celebration of beer, culture and entertainment.

This year's festival offers over 2,300 varieties of beer from more than 400 brands across 40 countries and regions.

A wide range of cultural and sports activities are organized across the festival, including an opening ceremony, art parades, craft beer competitions and concerts.

The 35th Qingdao International Beer Festival kicks off at Golden Beach Beer City in Qingdao West Coast New Area, Shandong province on July 18. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Nearly 2,000 performances are set to take place during the month-long event, with renowned domestic and international art troupes and bands presenting street shows, magic performances, smart robot parades, and traditional folk art displays.

As one of China's most iconic beer festivals, the event highlights Qingdao's vibrant nightlife and cultural diversity while boosting tourism and economic growth.

This year's beer festival coincides with the Qingdao International Sister Cities Exchange Month. As a cultural and friendship exchange event, the latter gathers representatives from 17 countries, aiming to expand cultural and tourism cooperation, explore new paths for industrial collaboration, and deepen non-governmental friendly exchanges.

The 35th Qingdao International Beer Festival kicks off at Golden Beach Beer City in Qingdao West Coast New Area, Shandong province on July 18. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The opening ceremony of the beer festival featured representatives from 10 international sister cities, including Minsk of Belarus and Regensburg of Germany. Artists from these cities delivered an engaging dance performance, celebrating the spirit of international friendship.

The 35th Qingdao International Beer Festival kicks off at Golden Beach Beer City in Qingdao West Coast New Area, Shandong province on July 18. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The 35th Qingdao International Beer Festival kicks off at Golden Beach Beer City in Qingdao West Coast New Area, Shandong province on July 18. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The 35th Qingdao International Beer Festival kicks off at Golden Beach Beer City in Qingdao West Coast New Area, Shandong province on July 18. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]