The Beijing Pavilion on Tuesday will host the first of China's theme week celebrations, which will see the country's provinces, cities and regions celebrate their heritage during Expo 2010 Shanghai.

At Tuesday's ceremony, Blessing from Beijing, an 8-meter-long scroll painted by 2,010 foreign and Chinese primary and middle school students, will be presented.

A parade combining traditional and modern artistic expression will showcase Beijing's ancient heritage and modern urban style.

More than 200 actors will dress in different clothing styles to demonstrate the 16 famous scenic or historic spots in Beijing, including the Forbidden City, the Beijing National Stadium, the Bird's Nest stadium and the Water Cube. The hour-long parade will take place daily from Tuesday to Saturday.

Meanwhile, a large screen in the central exhibition area will tell the story of time-honored Beijing, especially its hutong culture. Visitors can relive exciting moments from the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and the 60th anniversary celebrations of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

Visitors can also connect to Beijing through a series of performances, including dance, acrobatics, peace drums, martial arts and Peking opera. Performances will take place every morning and afternoon at the Baosteel Stage and Celebration Square.

Craftsmen from Beijing will give demonstrations of folk art, such as clay sculpture and paper cutting. Visitors can also taste the famous Quanjude Peking roast duck in the Expo Garden.

(China Daily May 4, 2010)