From art installations and traditional Chinese music to light shows, jazz, and markets, Shanghai offers plenty of experiences to enjoy this autumn.

Art on the Bund: Panda Holiday

When: Sept 13 to Nov 22

The Art on the Bund 2026 Terrace Art Season features an array of panda-themed art installations, transforming historic buildings and public spaces along a one-kilometer stretch of the Bund into an exciting cultural experience. At the Fosun Foundation, a 3-meter-tall panda-themed installation integrates the iconic panda figure with the building's architecture, serving as a visual focal point for the art season.

Other terrace spaces feature interactive panda installations where visitors can sit beside the pandas and take photos with the Huangpu River as a backdrop.

Visitors can use the event's official WeChat mini program to make reservations and access venue guides. As opening hours vary by venue, visitors are advised to plan their visits and choose suitable time slots in advance.

Scan the QR code to access the official WeChat mini program.

The art season also extends into nearby dining and shopping areas. Visitors can indulge in limited-edition drinks, special food offerings, and cultural and creative products, enjoy exhibition discounts, and experience lifestyle offerings available during the event.

Three key venues, Bund Finance Center, Shanghai Jiushi International Art Center, and FTC HUB (Jiangchuan Building), will host special displays and sales areas dedicated to panda-themed merchandise, including plush toys, fridge magnets, keychains, and other lifestyle items.

Grand Yuyuan Music & Heritage Festival

When: Sept 19 to Nov 15

The Grand Yuyuan Music & Heritage Festival will take place across the Yuyuan Tourist Mart and BFC. It will feature two main stages: one on BFC's terrace and one on the lake by Jiuqu Bridge. Both stages will open on Sept 19.

At BFC, the opening performance will fuse traditional Chinese vocal styles and folk music with contemporary electronic music. The outdoor stage is a work of art, inspired by moonlight and the elegance of traditional Chinese gardens. Classic elements blend with a modern architectural structure, set against the Lujiazui skyline.

Near Jiuqu Bridge, a stage will be set up on the lake for the first time, showcasing performances of Kunqu Opera, Peking Opera, Huangmei Opera, and Qinqiang Opera.

The opening night will also feature the traditional Mid-Autumn custom of zou yueliang, or "walking under the moon". Visitors can join a lantern procession through the streets of the old city, enjoying pingtan storytelling and Chinese music performances along the route.

After the opening, weekend heritage performances will continue at Yuyuan Tourist Mart, while BFC will present a series of international cultural events showcasing a range of Latin American culture and Italian aesthetics.

New Bund Chillout

When: Sept 20 to Nov 1

As the main site of the Shanghai International Light Festival's Pudong sub-venue, Qiantan will unveil a series of light and art installations on opening night, Sept 20. These installations will include building facade lighting, projection shows on riverside bridges, and art installations in the central commercial area. A highlight will be a cat-themed naked-eye 3D work.

Additionally, an 800-meter stretch of Qianjiatan Road will be transformed into a forest-themed light street, featuring international works such as Austrian designer Georg Oehler's award-winning "Humming Bird" and firefly-like lights installed among more than 100 roadside trees.

The JZ Festival, marking the largest edition in its 22-year history, will take place from Oct 16 to Nov 1. This year's festival will feature more than 100 musicians from over 20 countries. All outdoor performances and forums will be free to the public.

As part of the New Bund Chillout, four themed markets will be held, increasing the vibrant atmosphere of the event:

• Tea & Gelato Festival: Sept 19-20, 11 am-9 pm
• 2026 New Bund Coffee & Dessert Festival: Oct 1-4, 11 am-9 pm
• New Bund Cheers Festival: Oct 22-23, 4 pm-10 pm; Oct 24-25, 2 pm-10 pm
• Puff Up Bread 2026: Oct 30-Nov 1, noon-8 pm, featuring more than 200 brands from 37 cities across China

Source: General Office of the Shanghai Municipal People's Government