What’s on in Shanghai

Moon Festival photo

Moon Festival

17 September 2024

One of China's most beloved cultural celebrations, the Moon Festival marks the end of the harvest season. Also called the Mid-Autumn Festival, the 3,000-year-old celebration is now…

Moon Festival

17 September 2024

One of China's most beloved cultural celebrations, the Moon Festival marks the end of the harvest season. Also called the Mid-Autumn Festival, the 3,000-year-old celebration is now a public holiday when family and friends get together to give thanks for the harvest and eat Moon Cakes, round pastries with sweet fillings like red bean paste. Houses are decorated with coloured animal-shaped paper lanterns and altars are piled with round fruits to symbolise the shape of the moon. Apart from being a traditional time for family reunions and midnight feasts, the Moon Festival is also a romantic day in the Chinese calendar, complete with 'matchmaking dances' for those who are unattached.

Shanghai Tourism Festival photo

Shanghai Tourism Festival

13 — 18 September 2024

The massive Shanghai Tourism Festival showcases China's fascinating culture and history. Its opening ceremony takes the form of grand parades of floats and performance troupes, rep…

Shanghai Tourism Festival

13 — 18 September 2024

The massive Shanghai Tourism Festival showcases China's fascinating culture and history. Its opening ceremony takes the form of grand parades of floats and performance troupes, replete with sparkling costumes and dancing, which tour every district in the city. Millions of locals and visitors participate in the hundreds of events and activities presented at the festival, ranging from Chinese cooking classes and bicycle tours, to fireworks displays. Like the National Arts Festival in Shanghai, the Shanghai Tourism Festival brightens up the city and generates a wonderful festive atmosphere, making it a great time to visit the city, especially seeing as many museums, restaurants and other tourism attractions offer discounts of up to 50 percent during the festival.