The 2025 China-Italy Fashion and Culture Carnival kicked off at the Minghua Sugar Warehouse in Yangpu District, Shanghai. The three-day event attracted the participation of many people. With the theme of "Time-Space Folding - The Innovative Riverside in Dialogue with the Eternal City", the event not only showcased Italian operetta performances but also offered various cultural experiences such as China-Italy fashion joint shows and Italian magician performances.

This year marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Italy, making the holding of this carnival of extraordinary significance. Participants can gain an in-depth understanding of famous Italian archaeological sites through the Time-Space VR Archaeological Exhibition, which uses satellite images and virtual reality technology. They can feel the wonderful integration of technology and history and explore the codes of the millennium-old civilization.

Tongji University also participated in this grand event, launching the Invited Exhibition of Renaissance Digital Media Art. It used 3D animations to replicate classic sculptures, demonstrating the rebirth of art in the metaverse era. This is not only a visual feast but also an in-depth exploration of Italy's rich cultural heritage.

At the sub-venue along the Huangpu River, the 300-meter riverside-themed market was bustling with activity. The "Masquerade Dimension Market" here displayed Venetian mask culture, while the "Italian Food Corridor" introduced more than 30 Italian food brands, attracting many food lovers to come and taste. In addition, the "Fashion and Culture Market" showcased Chinese and Italian cultural and creative products, fully reflecting the integration of the two countries' cultures.

The opera performance jointly presented by Italian artists Denise Barberi and Amerigo Marino brought the audience an audio-visual feast, making people feel as if they were in the dreamy scene of "Meeting the Huangpu River by the Tiber River". The person in charge of the Italian Innovation Center stated that the carnival is not only an art performance but also an important opportunity to promote cultural exchanges between the two countries.

Shen Yi, an overseas committee member of the Shanghai Overseas Chinese Federation, mentioned in an interview: "From the dome murals of the Renaissance to the virtual sky of digital twins, this carnival is a dialogue between civilizations. It has built a bridge of friendship between China and Italy in the international metropolis of Shanghai, fully demonstrating the charm of fashion culture."

Italian artist Carla Tolomeo also brought her designed chair works. She said: "This is a rare opportunity for cultural exchange. I hope Chinese audiences can understand Italy's creative concepts and fashion art through my works."

This China-Italy Fashion and Culture Carnival not only allowed people to feel the charm of Italian culture but also provided a new platform for cultural exchanges between China and Italy. Whether it is the combination of technology and art, or the integration of food and fashion, they will be fully displayed at this grand event.