A sightseeing boat departs from Yangkou Pier in Laoshan on Sept 19, marking the launch of a new coastal sightseeing route in Qingdao. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Qingdao is gearing up for the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays with a packed calendar of cultural events, concerts, sports competitions and seasonal attractions, giving visitors fresh ways to experience the coastal city in autumn.

Traditional culture, live entertainment and outdoor activities will feature prominently across the holiday period.

The third Qingdao Liyuan Comedy Festival will continue through Sept 28 in the historic Zhongshan Road area, while the Qingdao City Football Championship will kick off on Sept 27 at Qingdao West Coast University City Stadium.

Music is also set to be a major draw. Taiwan-born singer Jay Chou will stage three concerts at Qingdao Citizen Fitness Center Stadium from Oct 3 to 5, alongside a series of other performances scheduled around the holidays.

Major attractions are also launching themed programs. Qingdao Underwater World will run a festive carnival from Sept 25 to Oct 7, featuring new marine-themed exhibitions and upgraded underwater performances. Qingdao Polar Ocean Park, meanwhile, will present a Mid-Autumn program inspired by the classic Chinese animation Havoc in Heaven.

For those looking to enjoy the season outdoors, Laoshan Mountain, historic neighborhoods and the city's waterfront remain key destinations. New sightseeing routes from the Olympic Sailing Center and Yangkou Wharf will offer visitors more ways to take in Qingdao's autumn coastline.

Museums and cultural venues will also host folk customs, handicraft workshops and traditional arts activities throughout the holiday period.