The art of participation: ‘Creative December’ and its evolving role in Shenzhen

The Purpose
The purpose of Creative December, held in Shenzhen in December of each year, is to celebrate a creative and cultural festival that involves the whole community. Since its establishment in 2005, it has accumulated thousands of innovative and creative activities related to the humanities and technology. The festival aims to cultivate the scientific, humanistic and artistic spirits of the city, continuously meet the growing spiritual and cultural needs of the people, inspire creativity and innovation among the general public, and contribute to the spiritual power of the people.

The Challenge

While the festival’s purpose is to celebrate creativity and culture and inspire innovation among the general public, it can be challenging to ensure that people from various age groups, backgrounds and interests actively participate in the festival. The city works hard to overcome this challenge.

The Solution
Creative December has become an important cultural festival for Shenzhen citizens to track cultural trends, share creative ideas and participate in creative design. It strives to make the content of the festival more diverse and inclusive, emphasising citizens’ sense of participation and acquisition. The festival aims to ensure that creative culture penetrates every corner of the city, and stimulates innovation and the creativity vitality of the entire population in Shenzhen.

The Impact
Creative December is held once a year, accumulating thousands of innovative and creative activities. It has become an increasingly significant cultural festival in Shenzhen. It encourages citizens to participate in creative activities, share ideas and track cultural trends. The festival contributes to the cultural and creative vitality of Shenzhen. It also inspires innovation and creativity in the community, making creative culture integral to the city’s identity.

Source: World Cities Culture Report 2022