Science museum to usher in New Year with astronaut talk, hit theater show！

The Shenzhen Science & Technology Museum in Guangming District will host a special “New-Quality Future Night” on Wednesday to welcome 2026. Photos courtesy of the museum

Shenzhen will welcome the New Year with a blend of science, art and stargazing as the Shenzhen Science & Technology Museum in Guangming District hosts a special “New-Quality Future Night” on Wednesday. Designed as a tech-forward alternative to crowded countdown parties, the museum will remain open until midnight and offer free access to its first and second floors.

A highlight of the evening is a rare in-person talk by Zhao Chuandong, one of China’s earliest astronauts. Speaking in the second-floor atrium, Zhao will share firsthand insights into China’s space journey and the spirit of aerospace exploration to inspire young people and the broader public.

Zhao Chuandong, one of China’s earliest astronauts, will share his personal experiences during the event.

The celebration also includes a free science-themed gala organized jointly by 10 universities. More than 20 creative performances — ranging from science rock and tech-driven dance to TED-style talks and multimedia shows — will run simultaneously in the second-floor main atrium and the first-floor multifunctional hall.

A new “Moon Market” will offer hands-on, playful experiences: themed beverages, a “Rose Science Show,” motion-sensing games, hand-painted moon lamps, customizable 3D-printed moon models, and simulated aerospace missions. Family-friendly features include a stilt-puppet staging of The Little Prince (from the Wuzhen Theatre Festival), fairy-tale-style NPCs and live science demonstrations that blend theatrical charm with scientific wonder.

As midnight approaches, visitors will be invited outside to observe the sky through 10 telescopes in a symbolic search for the first star of 2026. The countdown will be accompanied by an eight-minute technology-themed light show, immersive theatrical parades, lucky draws and a communal singalong to usher in the New Year.

Programming continues through Jan. 1 to Jan. 3, 2026, with workshops on 3D printing and AI music creation, robotics competitions, robot-dog performances and interactive activities across multiple floors.

Shenzhen Science & Technology Museum

Add: No. 8 Guanghui Avenue in Guangming District 深圳市光明区光辉大道8号深圳科学技术馆

Metro: Line 6, Guangming Station, Exit C/D

Source: Shenzhen Daily