As Spring Festival approaches, Gate M West Bund Dream Center is rolling out a seasonal program that will run for nearly two months along the Xuhui waterfront.

Both the north and south sections of Gate M have been transformed with Spring Festival-themed installations. The north zone features designs inspired by traditional Chinese opera headpieces, while the south zone highlights classic oiled-paper umbrellas, complemented by modern lighting and festive decor. Together, the installations create a riverside setting suited to both daytime strolls and evening visits.

Two themed markets will be held during the program. From Feb 6 to 8, a Spring Festival goods market will bring together festive snacks, regional specialties, and lifestyle brands, offering visitors a convenient way to sample seasonal treats and shop for holiday items. And from Feb 20 to 23, an intangible cultural heritage market will spotlight traditional crafts such as bamboo weaving and rubbing art, with numerous booths offering hands-on activities that allow visitors to engage directly with artisans.

Traditional performances will take place every weekend starting Jan 23. The lineup includes Peking Opera, shadow puppetry, and puppet theatre, as well as dragon and lion dances and folk music performances.

A key highlight is the Spring Festival parade, which features performers dressed in costumes inspired by different historical dynasties. Moving through the venue's public areas, the parade encourages close interaction and photo opportunities.

During the festival period, several on-site brands, including lululemon, adidas Originals, PUMA, Columbia, Lavas, and CGX, will offer a refund-upon-purchase service for overseas visitors, making tax-free shopping more convenient.

International travelers can also receive a Spring Festival gift by presenting their passport at the customer service desk. The limited-edition item, created by Chinese fragrance brand Documents, features a Year of the Horse design and serves as a keepsake of the Spring Festival experience.

Sources: WeChat accounts of Xuhui district and Gate M