In July 2024, the iconic Fairmont Peace Hotel, Shanghai, standing proudly since its opening in 1929, continues to be a unique bridge between the East and West. A historical landmark, the hotel has been a witness to countless artistic and cultural fusions, where vintage charm meets modern luxury. This year, the hotel once again celebrates its illustrious role in the cultural fabric of Shanghai with its 6th Peace Arts & Culture Week, themed “Shanghai Impressions.”
The event taps deeply into the city’s distinctive blend of cosmopolitan flair and traditional heritage. This year, the celebration holds special significance as it coincides with the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France, marking an enduring bond between these two cultural titans.
The Fairmont Peace Hotel has long been a symbol of Shanghai’s distinct “Haipai” culture—a unique fusion of Eastern and Western influences—and has also been a key witness to Sino-French relations. This year’s Peace Arts & Culture Week features a range of immersive activities designed to celebrate this cultural crossroads, including the Hennessy Cognac Tasting, the Shanghai Tang “Rise of Chinese Elegance” Art Salon, the Lan Mist Shanghai Impressions Photography Exhibition, and the “Style Matters” Haipai Culture Forum. These events will allow visitors to experience the richness of Haipai culture firsthand, showcasing the seamless blending of art, history, and innovation.
A Cultural Extravaganza
The Opening Ceremony on September 2 set the stage for this year’s festivities, unveiling a week full of enriching activities. The ceremony, aptly hosted on the 60th anniversary of China-France diplomatic relations, featured a collaborative performance by renowned chefs, titled “Rediscovering the Taste of China.” This special event highlights a unique culinary journey, blending traditional Chinese flavors with Western techniques, all in a tribute to Fairmont Peace Hotel’s gastronomic heritage.
On September 3, Hennessy hosted the “Rediscovering the Taste of China” Cognac Tasting Event. A blend of Chinese cultural nuances with French craftsmanship, this exclusive experience invites guests to journey through centuries of Hennessy’s legendary craftsmanship while savoring exquisite cognac, perfectly paired with Shanghai’s refined tastes. Guests were immersed in a world where time-honored traditions and contemporary flavors meet.
On September 5, the Shanghai Tang “Rise of Chinese Elegance” Art Salon highlighted how the brand—founded by Sir David Tang—infuses Chinese cultural elements into modern fashion and lifestyle. Known for incorporating traditional Chinese craftsmanship into contemporary design, Shanghai Tang reflects the essence of Art Deco, a shared aesthetic heritage with the Fairmont Peace Hotel.
On September 6, the Lan Mist “Shanghai Impressions” Photography Exhibition will capture the very essence of this vibrant city. The images will depict Shanghai’s unique elegance, from the bustling streets of old to its contemporary architectural marvels, offering a stunning portrayal of the city’s evolution through the lenses of some of the most talented photographers in the world.
September 9 will mark the grand finale of the event with the “Style Matters” Haipai Culture Forum, a roundtable featuring leading figures from the cultural and artistic worlds. Four distinguished speakers will offer their in-depth perspectives on the past, present, and future of Haipai culture, shedding light on its continued influence on global art and fashion.
A Tribute to Heritage and Innovation
This year’s Peace Arts& Culture Week is not only a celebration of the Fairmont Peace Hotel’s nearly century-old legacy but also a showcase of Shanghai’s constantly evolving cultural scene. It is a salute to Haipai culture—a movement that celebrates inclusivity, innovation, and artistic expression—and a nod to the city’s role as a cultural hub that bridges East and West.
[All images provided to That’s by Fairmont Peace Hotel, Shanghai]
