SATURDAY nights in Nanshan are about to get a lot livelier. Beginning this month, the district has launched “Music Time in Nanshan Parks,” a free concert series running for five consecutive months that brings live music to two of the city’s most picturesque waterfront venues. With open seating and no tickets required, the series invites residents and visitors alike to spend a relaxed evening outdoors enjoying sound, sea air and stars. Shows begin at 7 p.m. every Saturday and are free and open to the public. Performances will alternate between the Dasha River Promenade (大沙河長廊) and the western section of Shenzhen Bay Coastal Leisure Belt (深圳灣濱海休閑帶西段) near Sea World in Shekou, creating two regular gathering spots where people can wind down after the workweek. The concept is simple: Local and touring musicians perform a variety of sets — everything from acoustic singer-songwriter pieces to ensemble world-music arrangements — while audiences sit on blankets or portable chairs and soak up the atmosphere. September concerts September’s lineup highlights three themed “World Music” evenings designed to showcase a blend of international styles: Sept. 13 at Dasha River Promenade — world music special (East-West fusion) Sept. 20 at the western section of Shenzhen Bay Coastal Leisure Belt — world music special (world classics) Sept. 27 at Dasha River Promenade — world music special (folk songs) Pairing live performances with coastal views and evening breezes, the series offers an ideal low-cost way to spend a gentle autumn night with friends, family, or on a solo outing. Many attendees treat the concerts like a picnic: Bring a blanket or low-profile folding chairs, pack some snacks or pick up dinner from nearby vendors, and arrive early to find the best spot. For families, the relaxed outdoor setting makes the events a kid-friendly option; for couples and groups of friends, the combination of music and seaside scenery provides a mellow backdrop for conversation and relaxation. Practical tips ● Bring a picnic blanket or portable seating — open lawn and promenade seating are first-come, first-served. ● Check weather forecasts and local park announcements before heading out; organizers may reschedule or cancel performances in the event of heavy rain or unsafe conditions. ● Consider public transit to avoid parking congestion: See directions below. ● If you have mobility needs, or are coming with a stroller, check official park information in advance for accessibility details. Getting there Dasha River Promenade: Take Metro Line 2 or 13 to Keyuan Station (科苑站), Exit B, then walk about 1 km toward the Eco Book Bar Western section of Shenzhen Bay Coastal Leisure Belt: Take Metro Line 2 or 12 to Sea World Station (海上世界站), Exit A, then walk east about 800 meters Other attractions Beyond the music itself, the venues are close to several attractions — visit the Eco Book Bar near Dasha River for a pre-show coffee and browse, or explore Shekou’s Sea World area afterward for dining and nightlife. (Wei Jie) | 