The closing ceremony of the 31st Qingdao International Beer Festival was held via online channels on the evening of Aug 2 in the Qingdao West Coast New Area.

People enjoy beer and snacks while watching performances at a beer tent in Qingdao West Coast New Area. [Photo/VCG]

Despite the strict prevention and control measures in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 18-day beer festival attracted 2.07 million tourists to the Golden Beach Beer City and served 1,450 tons of beer, said the organizing committee.

A short video was released at the closing ceremony to review highlights of the annual beer festival, during which 678 artistic performances and 1,463 sports events were held to entertain revelers.

Video of highlights at the 31st Qingdao International Beer Festival [Provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

This year, the festival featured 1,600 kinds of beer from over 40 countries and regions, as well as various snacks and delicacies from all over the world.

Nine themed tents and 32 cabins were set up to provide beer and food for visitors. Centered on a theme of fashion, the event offered fashion-oriented sections featuring beer, delicacies, performances, activities and experiences.

Various beer products are offered during the beer festival. [Photo/VCG]

Initiated in 1991, the annual Qingdao beer festival has become a landmark event in the city and has evolved into one of the four largest beer festivals in the world.

The festival has further unleashed the consumption potential of catering, accommodation, transportation, economy and trade, and tourism in Qingdao, injecting vitality into urban development.

The brand value of the Qingdao International Beer Festival totaled 36.8 billion yuan ($5.67 billion), according to a four-month authoritative assessment revealed at the opening ceremony held on July 16.

The 32nd Qingdao International Beer Festival will be from July 15 to Aug 7, 2022, said the organizing committee.

People have a good time with their families and friends during the 31st Qingdao International Beer Festival. [Photo/VCG]

Lanterns are displayed during the beer festival. [Photo/VCG]

Hundreds of activities incorporating cultural performances, fashion shows and concerts have been held during the beer festival. [Photo/VCG]

Visitors pose for a photo at the Golden Beach Beer City in Qingdao West Coast New Area. [Photo/VCG]

A rock band performs during the 2021 Qingdao International Beer Festival. [Photo/VCG]

A fashion show is held during the 2021 Qingdao International Beer Festival. [Photo/VCG]