Lantern Festival brings an added festive glow to Shanghai, blending traditional customs with contemporary celebrations. Across the city, residents and visitors alike can immerse themselves in music, exhibitions, lantern displays, and festive gatherings.

Pudong New Area

Line Friends exhibition

When: Now until March 8

Where: 96 Plaza, No 796 Dongfang Road

This exhibition celebrates the Year of the Horse with interactive installations and playful designs. Visitors can enjoy an 8-meter-tall Brown Bear and explore five themed zones that bring the festive spirit to life. Limited-edition products are available for purchase, and daily raffles offer chances to win prizes, including a Huawei smartwatch. The newly opened cinema in the basement is also hosting screenings, alongside special activities featuring 100 Brown Bear mascots.

Huangpu district

Year of the Horse-themed performances

When: Now until March 3

Where: The Central shopping center, No 123 East Nanjing Road

This event blends Eastern and Western musical traditions, with performances that combine traditional Chinese instruments and Western jazz. A grand fish lantern parade will light up the Bund on Lantern Festival night, creating a vibrant atmosphere for the holiday.

Jing'an district

Rilakkuma Plush exhibition

When: Now until March 8

Where: Jing'an Joy City, No 166 North Xizang Road

The beloved Rilakkuma character has arrived in Shanghai for a special exhibition featuring limited-edition plush toys, keychains, and blind boxes, along with new releases. The exhibition offers a chance to step into Rilakkuma's relaxed world, with immersive themed installations that capture his signature charm.

Xuhui district

Waterfront Spring Festival season

When: Now until March 4

Where: Gate M West Bund Dream Center, No 2266 Longteng Avenue

This event combines traditional Chinese cultural elements with modern design, creating a visually striking space. Lanterns, traditional arched opera headpieces, and Spring Festival decorations line the waterfront. The lighting design changes throughout the day, creating an immersive experience that celebrates the season from dawn to dusk.

Changning district

Duoyunxuan woodblock print exhibition

When: Now until March 8

Where: Tsutaya Bookstore, Columbia Circle, No 1262 West Yan'an Road

This exhibition highlights the beauty of traditional Chinese woodblock prints, showcasing works that celebrate the Year of the Horse. The collection features both classic pieces by renowned artists such as Xu Beihong and Qi Baishi, as well as modern interpretations. The prints are filled with symbolic imagery that includes horses, lion dances, and traditional motifs, blending cultural heritage with the festive spirit of the season.

Putuo district

Lantern Festival gathering

When: Now until March 3

Where: Bailian Zhonghuan shopping center, No 1288 Zhenguang Road

This event features live folk music performances and a vibrant hanfu (traditional Chinese attire) parade. Visitors can also enjoy interactive lantern riddles with prizes to be won. On Lantern Festival night, free tangyuan (sweet glutinous rice balls) will be served, along with special discounts at participating stores on gold jewelry and cosmetics, creating a festive shopping experience.

Hongkou district

Lantern Festival temple fair

When: Now until March 3

Where: The Inlet, Nos 35-95 Alley 989, North Sichuan Road

This lively temple fair features traditional games such as ring toss and touhu (in which players throw arrows into wine pitchers). Visitors can win cultural and creative products, vouchers for drinks, and scratch cards. The atmosphere is filled with music, games, and good fortune, offering a fun and engaging way to celebrate the holiday.

Source: Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce