Wuxi celebrated as China's first UNESCO City of Music

Denise Bax, secretary of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, presented the certificate designating Wuxi as a UNESCO City of Music to Mayor Jiang Feng on Nov 15 on Bogong Island in Wuxi, Jiangsu province.

On Oct 31, Wuxi was officially selected as part of the Creative Cities Network by UNESCO, becoming China's first City of Music.

Denise congratulated Wuxi on earning this honor, emphasizing that it celebrates the city's rich musical history and innovative spirit. She pointed out that in Wuxi, music goes beyond being just art — it is a vital part of life, a social connection, and a catalyst for innovation.

During the event, the "UNESCO City of Music - Wuxi" logo was revealed, and the first batch of shared stages, including venues like the Jiugong Music Space on Bogong Island and Shengtang Hall in Yingyueli Block, was announced. The Wuxi Music Map is now accessible on the Baidu Maps app.

Additionally, agreements were signed for seven music projects, including Wuxi Chinese Orchestra's European tour in 2026 and the Huallywood Music Block.

On the same day, a music carnival was launched on Bogong Island, featuring performances by over 30 music groups, alongside enthusiastic music-loving citizens. A music culture market was set up to showcase a variety of cultural and music-related items and local delicacies.

Wuxi, the first city in China designated as a UNESCO City of Music, will use this recognition as a launching pad to advance its development as a City of Music. Its plans include creating and executing a dedicated strategy, improving cultural facilities in urban and rural areas, expanding the music industry, and boosting music's role in urban growth and residents' quality of life.