People have fun at the 21st Taicang Rothenburg Oktoberfest. [Photo/WeChat account: tcfbgw]

The 21st Taicang Rothenburg Oktoberfest opened on Aug 19, bringing four days of Bavarian festivities, food and cross-cultural experiences to the city.

A band performes at the Oktoberfest. [Photo/WeChat account: txfbgw]

Running daily from 6 pm to 10 pm, the event is one of Taicang's signature platforms for strengthening ties with Germany and promoting cultural exchange. Inspired by the traditions of Rothenburg's Oktoberfest, the carnival brings together internationally known beer brands alongside German favorites such as grilled sausages and pork knuckles.

People have fun at the 21st Taicang Rothenburg Oktoberfest. [Photo/WeChat account: tcfbgw]

The festivities are designed for visitors of all ages. A dedicated children's play area, traditional handicraft experiences and a new energy vehicle exhibition add to the attractions, while large screens across the venue broadcast performances from the main stage and live soccer matches.

Each evening also features German-style bands, DJs, drinking competitions and themed parades. Humanoid robots and NPC pop-up performances add an unexpected Chinese-German twist to the celebrations.

But the Oktoberfest is about more than celebration. During the event, Taicang is also hosting a job fair for German companies and a China-Germany technology exchange, turning casual conversations over beer into opportunities for talent recruitment, business connections and deeper cooperation.