As Dragon Boat Festival gets underway, Shanghai's ancient towns are coming alive with festive energy.

From cultural parades to riverside markets, there's no better time to dive into centuries-old traditions with a modern twist.

Here are some of the city's must-see cultural happenings this holiday:

Sijing Ancient Town

Opera carnival with a cultural twist

When: Now – June 15

Sijing's ancient streets transform into a stage for its intangible cultural heritage opera carnival. Catch live performances of traditional Chinese operas, traditional music ensembles, and more.

Keep an eye out for flash mobs and roaming performers dressed as legendary characters like Nezha, the White Snake, and other opera icons — you never know who you'll run into around the next corner.

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town

Riverside market & Han-style night fest

When: May 30 – June 2

Zhujiajiao welcomes Dragon Boat Festival with a return to its riverside roots. The waterside market brings together over 20 stalls featuring traditional handicrafts, retro-inspired cultural creations, and street food bursting with flavor.

As night falls, the Han-style fest lights up the ancient town with music, costumes, and glowing flower boats — an unmissable celebration of Jiangnan charm and festive spirit.

Luodian Ancient Town

Dragon boat culture festival at Meilan Lake

When: May 30 – June 2

Celebrate the 18th Luodian Dragon Boat Culture Festival at scenic Meilan Lake. These aren't your typical races — expect synchronized paddling, creative formations, and captivating water displays that showcase precision and teamwork.

Beyond the boats, explore a lively holiday market, enjoy cultural performances, and take part in traditional festival activities.

Sources: "shanghaifabu" WeChat account, Songjiang district government, Qingpu district government and Baoshan district government