The Festival of China, an unprecedented culture event cosponsored by China and the United States, was kicked off with dazzling art shows, joyous celebrations and firework displays in the Kennedy Center for Performing Arts on 1 October 2005.

The Festival of China features dozens of cultural events, including performances, exhibitions, outreaching programs and educational activities, spanning from classical to contemporary pieces, including dance, theater, instrument music, visual arts, literature and film.

The month-long event highlights the cultural diversity and vitality of the contemporary China as well as China's ancient history and customs.

Some 400,000 Americans participated in the festival in person and another one million will enjoy Chinese cultural and art shows via TV and Internet broadcasting.