Celebrate the festive season in Shanghai with a diverse lineup of markets that blend traditional culture with modern trends. Here's your ultimate guide to the most exciting upcoming markets in the city!

The Inlet

The Early Spring Market — ranked among China's top 10 creative markets — will return to The Inlet shopping area with the theme "Snake Dance for the New Year" from Jan 17 to 19.

This Shanghai-based community market celebrates local living across world, featuring four main sections: Haipai lifestyle, handmade crafts, regional specialties, and farm-to-table cuisine.

More than 100 artisans and creatives are expected to participate. The event will also showcase a thrilling Yingge dance performance by the historic Houxi Yingge Dance Team from the Mianbei subdistrict in Chaoyang district, Shantou, Guangdong province, creating a truly unique marketplace experience.

When: 12 pm to 8 pm, Jan 17 to 19

Where: North Square, South Square and Building 10 of The Inlet (Alley 989, North Sichuan Road, Hongkou district)

The Bund Finance Center

The Bund Finance Center (BFC) will host a 37-day New Year celebration from Jan 11 to Feb 16, offering Shanghai residents to celebrate the season in style.

In partnership with Free Down Space — a youth-driven group focused on sustainability — the event will present the Fantastic New Year Bazaar.

Expect a unique blend of modern Chinese aesthetics with highlights like Guochao, or Chinese chic experiences, cultural pop-ups, folk art, and innovative takes on traditional heritage. It's a fresh, stylish way to celebrate the season.

When: Now until Feb 16

Where: The Bund Finance Center (No 600 East Zhongshan Road Number Two)

Rockbund

The Chinese New Year Market at Rockbund is overflowing with cultural charm. Celebrating the Year of the Snake, the market combines traditional themes with modern creativity, featuring three towering installations over six meters tall.

On offer are historical brands, trendy Guochao snacks, beautifully crafted tea sets, large-scale art displays, rare antique books, and unique wine selections. This diverse market brings together culture, history, and modern style.

When: 10:30 am to 9:30 pm, now until Feb 16 (closed from Jan 27 to 31)

Where: Yuanmingyuan Road Pedestrian Street (No 99 East Beijing Road, Huangpu district)

Panlong Tiandi

Panlong Tiandi welcomes the Year of the Snake with festive traditions of the Jiangnan region, the area south of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River.

The event features stunning snake-themed lantern displays made through traditional craftsmanship alongside experiences like the temple fair, bonfire gatherings, and lantern-lit dragon dances. Enjoy the magic of Chinese New Year amid picturesque bridges and waterways.

When: 11 am to 9 pm, Jan 30 to Feb 4, Feb 12 to 16

Where: Cheng's Ancestral Hall (1st Floor, Panlong Tiandi, No 8 Lane 123, Panding Road, Qingpu district)

Taikoo Li Qiantan

The Urban Forest Market at Taikoo Li Qiantan is the perfect winter escape. Located in a cozy 600-square-meter indoor space on the 4th floor of the Wood Zone, it offers more than just shopping.

Visitors can relax in the forest-themed bookstore, participate in interactive activities, or check out the matchmaking corner. Stay warm and enjoy a unique winter experience, all under one roof.

When: Weekends and public holidays from 2 pm to 10 pm; Now until Feb 16

Where: Room W-L4-03, 4th Floor, Taikoo Li Qiantan, No 1-9 Lane 500, Dongyu Road, Pudong New Area

Sources: Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, Rockbund