SHANGHAI, Oct. 6 (Xinhua) -- Shanghai Tourism Festival, which concluded on Saturday, saw a record 12.75 million visitors from China and abroad, up by five percent year on year, according to the event organizer.

More than 1,300 performers from 25 countries and regions joined the parade held at the opening of the festival on Sept. 15. A float representing the European Union made debut in the parade and received a reward for its special effects.

"We hope the float can help attract more Chinese to visit European destinations," said William Fingleton, head of press of the European Union delegation to China.

Over 70 activities were held and many new tourism products were promoted during the festival to mark the 40th anniversary of China's reform and opening up, and welcome the upcoming China International Import Expo.