"Because I want to be a real Shanghainese for a day."
— From "100 Reasons to Spend Spring Festival in Shanghai"
【Chinese new year Customs & Traditions】
Celebrate Chinese New Year and experience traditional folk festivals.
2026 Shanghai Yu Garden Lantern Festival
Location:
Grand Yuyuan Cultural District (extending to Fuyou Rd, Fangbang Middle Rd, Old Town Park, The Bund, etc.)
Duration:
Jan 26 - Mar 3, 2026 (Lights remain off on Chinese new year's Eve)
Ticketing:
The "Yu Garden Folk Art Lantern Area" requires time-slot tickets. The other five lantern areas are free.
Price:
Adult: 80 RMB/person; Discounted: 50 RMB/person.
Booking:
"Yu Garden Ticket" (豫园票务) WeChat Mini-program or Ticketing Planet (票星球).
Why Visit:
Known as "Shanghai's No. 1 New Year Tour," the Year of the Horse theme connects Yu Garden to The Bund. A must-visit for traditional Chinese New Year vibes.
Description:
As Shanghai's most iconic New Year landmark, the 2026 festival expands to Fuyou Rd and the BFC Bund Financial Center. It features horse-themed lantern sets, folk markets, cultural performances, and high-tech interactions, recreating the memory of the Old City while blending modern trends.
"Chinese new year in Ancient Towns" Series
Location:
Zhouqiao Old Street, Nanxiang, Anting, Fengjing, Qibao, Sijing, Zhujiajiao, Qingxi, etc.
Duration:
Jan - Feb 2026
Ticketing:
Free admission to town streets; some specific attractions require separate tickets.
Why Visit:
Explore Jiangnan water towns, taste authentic New Year delicacies, and catch traditional opera performances.
Description:
From the water reflections of Zhujiajiao to the blessing culture of Fengjing, each town offers a unique charm. Visitors can enjoy traditional snacks (like Nanxiang Xiao Long Bao) and shop for local New Year specialties amidst the classic white-walled and black-tiled architecture.
"Lantern Festival Celebration" Series
Location:
Luodian Ancient Town, INLET (今潮8弄), etc.
Duration:
Jan - Mar 2026
Ticketing:
Free
Why Visit:
Immerse yourself in light and shadow displays across the city.
Description:
Luodian's "Golden Luodian" display is inspired by local history and intangible heritage. INLET's "Dreamy Horse Realm" (梦马瑶境) blends Chinese romance with Western fantasy through five massive light art installations, markets, and workshops.
Zhang Yuan New Year Garden Party
Location:
Zhang Yuan (Corner of West Nanjing Rd and North Maoming Rd, near Wujiang Rd)
Duration:
Feb 15 - Feb 23, 2026
Ticketing:
Free
Why Visit:
Experience the fusion of Shanghai-style (Haipai) culture, light art, and heritage architecture.
Description:
Featuring Year of the Horse installations, this event blends the vintage charm of centuries-old villas with modern art. It’s a sophisticated mix of traditional New Year customs and trendy creative markets.
Longhua Winter Fair
Location:
Longhua Temple and Longhua Square
Duration:
Now through Feb 21, 2026
Ticketing:
Free for square/market areas.
Why Visit:
Participate in a thousand-year-old temple fair, taste local snacks, and find intangible heritage crafts.
Description:
A cultural carnival centered on the Longhua Temple. It features the "Longhua Fair" seasonal theme, providing an immersive "New Chinese Style" atmosphere. Visitors can hear the traditional bell-ringing for blessings and find peace in the heart of the city.
"Expats Celebrate Chinese New Year"
Location:
63 Anyi Road
Duration:
Feb 2026
Ticketing:
Free
Why Visit:
A dedicated cultural exchange for international friends to experience local customs in a fashionable "International" yet "Grounded" neighborhood.
Description:
Located next to Jing'an Kerry Centre, this event invites foreign residents and tourists to experience the charm of Chinese traditions in a modern urban setting.
"Search for the Horse" Mall Campaign
Location:
Century Link, Yu Garden, CITIC Pacific Plaza, and various malls citywide.
Duration:
Now through early Mar 2026
Ticketing:
Free (Public areas)
Why Visit:
A city-wide public art hunt for "Horse" installations featuring diverse artistic styles.
Description:
Features a 4-meter "Digital Pegasus" at New World Daimaru, "Galloping Horse Treading on a Flying Swallow" at Plaza 66, and Dunhuang-inspired art at 1000 Trees. It’s a blend of retail therapy and contemporary zodiac art.
【Shanghai-Style Cultural Landmarks】
Enjoy Shanghai-style culture and Chinese art exhibitions.
Spring Breeze and Galloping Horses: Year of the Horse Exhibition
Location:
Shanghai Museum (People's Square)
Duration:
Feb 4 - Mar 17, 2026
Ticketing:
Free (Walk-in with valid ID; no reservation required).
Why Visit:
A curated selection of 16 sets of horse-themed artifacts showcasing Chinese cultural depth and New Year aspirations.
Description:
Includes bronze, ceramics, painting, and jade from various major Chinese museums. It offers an authoritative window into understanding the significance of the "Horse" in Chinese history.
The 15th Shanghai Biennale: "Did the Flower Hear the Bee?"
Location:
Main Venue: Power Station of Art (PSA); City Projects: Jiayuanhai Art Museum, Beast TBH.
Duration:
Now through Mar 31, 2026
Ticketing:
60 RMB; available via "Power Station of Art" WeChat Mini-program.
Why Visit:
A top-tier global contemporary art event exploring the relationship between art, nature, and society.
Description:
Founded in 1996, it is the most influential art event in Asia. This edition uses global curation to showcase leading edge artworks and research.
"Echoes of Dunhuang" Cultural & Art Charity Exhibition
Location: Shanghai Artfront Centre (艺丰中心)
Duration:
Now through Mar 31, 2026
Ticketing:
Free (Reservation required via "He Yi Dunhuang" WeChat account).
Why Visit:
High-fidelity replicas of Dunhuang grottoes and murals, including the massive "Central Pillar Cave."
Description:
Features five replicated classic Mogao Caves, along with manuscripts and sculptures, allowing visitors to experience the "Pearl of the Silk Road" without leaving Shanghai.
Shanghai Art & Design Exhibition
Location:
China Art Museum (formerly the Expo China Pavilion)
Duration:
Now through Mar 1, 2026
Ticketing:
Free
Why Visit:
Visualizes the future of lifestyle through five themes: Clothing, Food, Housing, Travel, and Entertainment.
Description:
Showcases Shanghai's design power through global curation, brand pop-ups, and interactive museum collaborations.
Modern Glamour: Shanghai-Style Qipao and a Century of Fashion
Location:
Shanghai Museum (People's Square)
Duration:
Now through May 5, 2026
Ticketing:
Free
Why Visit:
Witness the evolution of the Qipao (Cheongsam) from a traditional garment to an international fashion icon.
Description:
Features the collection of Mr. Jeff Chang (Zhang Xinzhe) and donations from Ms. Patricia Pei, illustrating the 100-year history of Shanghai’s modern lifestyle.
Jingju & Kunqu Opera Gala
Location:
Tianchang Yi Fu Theatre
Duration:
Feb 18 - Feb 23, 2026
Ticketing:
80 - 580 RMB; available via "Tianchang Yi Fu Theatre" (天蟾逸夫舞台) or Damai.cn.
Why Visit:
Watch "Mu Guiying Takes Command" and "The Peony Pavilion" performed by top-tier artists.
Description:
A high-level showcase of China's "National Treasure" performing arts featuring stars from the Shanghai Jingju Theatre and Shanghai Kunqu Opera Troupe.
Shanghai Circus World: "ERA 2" New Year Carnival
Location:
Shanghai Circus World and surrounding green spaces.
Duration:
Jan - Feb 2026
Ticketing:
"ERA 2" tickets range from 380 - 880 RMB.
Why Visit:
Award-winning international acrobatics combined with interactive circus parades and outdoor shows.
Description:
ERA 2 is a flagship resident show in Shanghai. The carnival expands the experience with outdoor interactions, making it a perfect family destination.
Shanghai-Style Puppet Show: "Sun Wukong: Three Battles with the White Bone Demon"
Location:
Cless Puppet Theatre (Shanghai Puppet Troupe)
Duration:
Feb 21 - Feb 23, 2026
Ticketing:
From 80 RMB.
Why Visit:
A classic Chinese myth performed with traditional Shanghai puppet techniques.
Description:
Features an exhibition of "Rod Puppets" from Shanghai, "String Puppets" from Europe, and Southeast Asian puppets alongside the performance.
【Modern Landmarks & Experiences】
Explore theme parks and modern Shanghai icons.
Disney Winter Frostival
Location:
Shanghai Disney Resort
Duration:
Nov 7, 2025 - Mar 3, 2026
Ticketing:
Via Shanghai Disney Resort Official App or website.
Why Visit:
"Disney Winter Frostival Parade," snowy castle moments, and Chinese New Year-themed decorations.
Description:
Features characters in new festive costumes, "Zootopia" residents in snowman outfits, and exclusive winter merchandise and dining.
LEGOLAND Shanghai: "Big Happiness for Big New Year"
Location:
LEGOLAND Shanghai Resort
Duration:
Jan 24 - Mar 3, 2026
Ticketing:
Via LEGOLAND Shanghai official channels.
Why Visit:
Festive build-challenges and LEGO-themed Chinese New Year performances.
Description:
Features a LEGO City wish-list event, exclusive shows, and a vibrant market atmosphere where every brick can realize a dream.
2026 Riverside Ice Season
Location:
North Bund Cruise Terminal (Port of Shanghai)
Duration:
Jan 1 - Feb 28, 2026
Ticketing:
Rink experience starts at 69.9 RMB.
Why Visit:
Shanghai's only riverside ice rink with "Snowfall Moments" and ice shows every weekend.
Description:
Includes a "New Year Market" with winter snacks and games, candlelit concerts, and a light-up ceremony from the rink to the Maritime Tower.
Baoshan International Folk Art Museum
Location:
4788 Hutai Rd, Baoshan District
Duration:
Jan - Feb 2026
Ticketing:
30 RMB
Why Visit:
A professional museum showcasing folk arts and intangible heritage from over 10 countries across five continents.
Description:
Uses multimedia and scene reconstruction to present global cultural diversity. A great window for understanding world heritage.
Shanghai Museum of Glass
Location:
685 West Changjiang Rd, Baoshan District
Duration:
Jan - Feb 2026
Ticketing:
Multi-venue tickets (Art/Kids) 108 RMB; Single venue 60 RMB.
Why Visit:
Rated by CNN as one of the "Three Museums in China Most Worth Visiting."
Description:
Features a 1,000-year history of glass, a glass maze for "light-and-shadow hide-and-seek," and live "Hot Glass" glass-blowing performances.
Ruihong Tiandi: "Galloping Together" New Year Campaign
Location:
Ruihong Tiandi (Ruihong Rd)
Duration:
Jan 30 - Mar 3, 2026
Ticketing:
Free (Public areas)
Why Visit:
Features "The Ceiling of Shanghai New Year Shopping" with two major festive markets.
Description:
Combines traditional customs with modern interaction, non-遗 (intangible heritage) workshops, and folk performances.
Longhua Hospital Intimate TCM Experience
Location:
Longhua Hospital International Medical Department
Duration:
Jan - Feb 2026 (Closed Feb 16-19)
Ticketing:
Appointment via hospital's official channels.
Why Visit:
Add Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to your travel list; experience acupuncture and Tui-na massage.
Description:
A world-renowned hospital offering professional TCM services for international visitors, including cupping and herbal consultations.
Extreme Kung Fu (Jizhi Kung Fu)
Location:
Rm 1502, Bldg 15, Lane 1265, West Zhongshan Rd
Duration:
Mon-Sat, 10:30-21:30
Ticketing:
Booking via official channels or Dianping.com.
Why Visit:
An expat-run martial arts studio teaching Tai Chi and Wing Chun in full English.
Description:
Flexible courses suitable for all levels, focusing on self-defense, fitness, and deep cultural immersion.
【Authentic Local Eats】
Taste authentic flavors and relax your body and mind.
Nanxiang Ancient Town Lantern & Food Festival
Location:
Nanxiang Ancient Town (Jiefang St, Minzhu St, Guyi Garden Rd)
Duration:
Feb 10 - Mar 3, 2026
Ticketing:
Free (Town access)
Why Visit:
The birthplace of Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings); participate in riddle-solving and ceramic exhibitions.
Description:
Theme: "Spirit of the Steamer, Leap into the New Year." Taste authentic dumplings while enjoying horse-themed lanterns.
Wang Jia Sha "Spring Welcoming" Food Festival
Location:
Wang Jia Sha Flagship Store (805 West Nanjing Rd)
Duration:
Feb 2026
Ticketing
: Pay as you eat
Why Visit:
A one-stop "Intangible Heritage" shopping experience for traditional pastries, Eight-Treasure Rice, and Crab Meat Dumplings.
Description:
Observe the bustling scene of local "Aunties and Uncles" buying New Year supplies—the most authentic expression of Shanghai's commercial vitality.
Sunya Cantonese Restaurant New Year Market
Location:
Sunya Cantonese Restaurant (Nanjing East Rd Store)
Duration:
Jan 31 - Feb 13, 2026
Ticketing:
Pay as you buy
Why Visit:
Master-curated semi-finished dishes, Cantonese cured meats, and innovative pastries.
Description:
One of Shanghai’s oldest Cantonese restaurants. The crowds here during the New Year are a vivid symbol of the city's festive spirit.
Yu Garden (Garden Itself)
Location:
Yuyuan Garden (inside the Mall area)
Duration:
Jan 30 - Feb 28, 2026
Ticketing:
30 RMB
Why Visit:
Follow the footsteps of visiting world leaders; eat Butterfly Cookies at Lu Bo Lang and drink tea at Huxinting Tea House.
Description:
A Ming Dynasty classic garden. Enjoy the refined Shanghai-style tea culture amidst pavilions, rockeries, and ponds.
【Shanghai Shopping & Convenience】
Exclusive services for payment and travel convenience.
Shanghai Pass: Museum New Year Combo
Location:
20+ designated museums (including Shanghai Museum, Science & Technology Museum, etc.)
Duration:
Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2026
Ticketing:
Starts at 349 RMB (Early bird special: 299 RMB for first 299 buyers). Available via "Hu Xiao You" (沪小游) or "Shanghai City Tour Card" Mini-program.
Why Visit:
Incredible value; access 20 top-tier cultural venues with one pass.
Luxury Shopping at iapm Mall
Location:
iapm Mall (Middle Huaihai Rd)
Duration:
Jan - Feb 2026
Ticketing:
Free entry
Why Visit:
Dozens of Tax-Refund stores and international luxury brands (Prada, Gucci, Burberry, Canada Goose).
Description:
High-end shopping with late-night dining options and convenient tax-refund services for international travelers.
Bailian Qingpu Outlets
Location:
Qingpu Outlets (near Hongqiao)
Duration:
Jan - Feb 2026
Ticketing:
Free entry
Why Visit:
400+ international brands with deep discounts and extra New Year promotions.
Description:
Features "Horse-themed" gifts, non-遗 (intangible heritage) parades, and even helicopter experiences for VIP members.
Wukang Road - Anfu Road District
Location:
Wukang Rd, Anfu Rd
Duration:
24/7 (Shops usually 10:00-22:00)
Ticketing:
Free street access
Why Visit:
The "Citywalk" hotspot of Shanghai; features the Wukang Mansion, boutique coffee shops, and trendy lifestyle brands.
Description:
A beautiful mix of historic villas and modern "Instagrammable" spots. The district is fully decorated for the New Year.
I
nbound Consumption Gift Season
Location:
Major malls citywide (Nanjing Rd, Huaihai Rd, Lujiazui, Xujiahui)
Duration:
Now through early Mar 2026
Ticketing:
Free to participate
Why Visit:
1% extra gift on tax-refund sales; UnionPay 20% off for foreign cards (on purchases over 100 RMB).
Description:
Special promotions coordinated by Bank of China and CCB to welcome international guests with tangible benefits.
>
