Nanning,July 18--An annual international water carnival will kick off at the end of September in Liuzhou city in South China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, local authorities said Wednesday.

The 2013 Liuzhou International Water Carnival, which starts from Sept 30, will feature road parades, water sports and a beer festival, a spokesman with Liuzhou's government said.

The five-day event is an effort to enhance Liuzhou's international influence, as it will include seven international competitions, including water skiing and yacht racing, the spokesman said.

The carnival, which marks its third anniversary this year, is held to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival and Chinese National Day holiday. It is expected to draw a large number of tourists and competitors from around the world.