Get ready for a really exciting season of shopping, experiences and surprises across Shanghai!

The 2025 Shanghai Shopping Festival kicks off on April 30 and runs through to late June, bringing together nine major commercial areas, 94 shopping malls and around 3,600 retail brands.

This year's festival promises more variety than ever before, with new themed events catering to diverse lifestyles and interests. Whether you're a coffee lover, a car enthusiast, or simply looking for a great deal, there's something for everyone.

Here's your essential guide to the highlights:

Shanghai Auto Quality Consumption Carnival

When: Starting April 30

Where: North Plaza, Zhenru Unipark Max Shopping Mall, No 1 Alley 699, Tongchuan Road, Putuo district

Need a new ride? Then don't miss this major automotive showstopper! Focusing on Putuo district's thriving car economy, the carnival features a brand-new "Auto plus" consumer experience during the Labor Day holiday in May. Shoppers can enjoy a great 3,000 yuan (about $411) subsidy per new car purchase, plus exclusive online group-buying vouchers from Zhenru Unipark Max Shopping Mall.

Home Refresh Festival

When & Where:

• May 1-3: Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center
• May 31: Shanghai Automobile Exhibition Center

Looking to upgrade your living space? Then, head to the Home Appliance and Furnishing Carnival, where nearly 100 leading brands will showcase the latest in home innovation. Expect new launches for AI-powered refrigerators, laundry robots, breeze-free air conditioners and elder-friendly health appliances, among others. With government subsidies and special discounts, it's the perfect time to refresh your home.

Shanghai International Coffee Culture Festival

When & Where:

• Opening ceremony: April 30, The Grand Halls, No 8 North Bund Road, Hongkou district
• Main events: April 29 to May 2, North Bund Waterfront

Coffee lovers, rejoice! This year's Coffee Culture Festival blends coffee with tourism, commerce, sport and exhibitions for Shanghai's largest "Coffee plus" event. Featuring a buzzing marketplace, the festival also spreads citywide, with all 16 districts and the Lin-gang Special Area joining in. Watch out for special offers, vouchers and freebies from e-commerce platforms like Meituan, Ele.me, Alipay and Tmall.

Pet Fun Festival

• When: Starting May 1
• Where: Arch Walk, C•PARK, The Place and Bailian Xijiao shopping malls

Pet parents, you can't miss this furry carnival! Themed on "Pet Gathering", it kicks off at Arch Walk and includes a world-class pet competition (May 1-2), Pet Adoption Day (May 3) and a pet-themed marketplace (May 1-5). It's a joyful celebration for both you and your four-legged friends.

Shanghai International Cosmetic Festival

When: April 27 to May 24

Where: Second Floor Atrium, Jiuguang Department Store, No 1618 West Nanjing Road, Jing'an district

Beauty lovers are in for a real treat. This festival unveils the season's newest skincare and makeup collections, with unbeatable deals:

- 300 yuan off when you spend 1,000 yuan on skincare

- 150 yuan off when you spend 500 yuan on cosmetics

That's up to 30 percent off your favorite beauty brands!

2025 Diamond & Gems Cultural Festival

When: May 20

Where: International Jewelry Fashion Functional Zone, Huangpu district

Looking for some sparkle in your life? Discover traditional and trendy pieces at this supreme celebration of the craftsmanship of jewelry. During the event, Huangpu district will host a special activity encouraging both domestic and international brands to offer exclusive deals. Expect new product releases from top names like Lao Feng Xiang, Chow Tai Fook, China Gold and much, much more — including elegant gold jewelry crafted using ancient techniques.

Source: Shanghai Observer