Shanghai has launched 18 city-customized events as part of its ongoing Shanghai Summer International Consumption Season, inviting global travelers to experience the city's vibrant pulse and immerse themselves in its rich culture. From major exhibitions and thrilling street sports to iconic pop culture and lifestyle showcases, this city-wide celebration promises unforgettable experiences for all.

Building Shanghai: Architecture, Urbanism, and Culture since 1949

When: Now to Aug 10

Where: West Bund Museum, No 2600 Longteng Avenue

This groundbreaking exhibition unfolds nine themed sections, showcasing over 80 iconic architectural projects and more than 300 items, including blueprints, photographs, archives, and artworks, to comprehensively trace Shanghai's urban and architectural journey over the past 76 years. As the city's first major exhibition devoted exclusively to architecture, it breaks conventional curatorial boundaries and unveils rare historic materials for the first time, offering both local and global audiences a distinct perspective on the Shanghai Spirit.

Splash Season: Waterfront Music Season

When: Now to Aug 31

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

The riverside comes alive each week with diverse musical flash performances during the Waterfront Music Season. The series also unites retailers at Gate M West Bund Dream Center, using art as a driving force to boost urban consumption and highlight Shanghai's distinctive summer charm.

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'Flourishing' Summer & Autumn Season at West Bund Theatre

When: July to November

Where: West Bund Theatre, No 2290 Longteng Avenue

Located just 20 meters from the Huangpu River, this waterfront theater's "Flourishing" season unfolds in two major acts and features performances such as the original Chinese musical The Message and the stage play The 3 Penny Opera by the Berliner Ensemble.

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West Bund Central Summer International Cultural Carnival

When: Now to Mid-September

Where: WB Central, No 288 Ruining Road

WB Central is a massive integrated complex that blends finance, commerce, culture, arts, and tourism. This summer, it is hosting one to two themed events each month, offering diverse cultural experiences from around the world. Highlights include pet-friendly festivals such as "Summer Glow", where visitors can enjoy Italian-themed performances, a parade of decorated floats, signature Aperol Spritz tastings, and more. The ongoing art exhibition Even Now, I Hold It Close and urban cycling events further enrich the lively summer atmosphere. Spanning multiple venues across the complex, these activities engage local communities and brand partners alike, creating immersive, multicultural consumption experiences that showcase the unique summer appeal of West Bund.

Shanghai Finals of the Li-Ning Bad Five Street Basketball League

When: Aug 9 (the national finals)

Since its launch in 2004, the Li-Ning "3+1" Basketball League, also known as the Li-Ning Bad Five Street Basketball League, has captured two decades of streetball spirit. Its signature 3-on-3 team showdowns and 1-on-1 battles blend brotherhood with fierce competition. From July 4 to 6, the Shanghai finals lit up the Gate M West Bund Dream Center, where team You Sheng Mei claimed the championship and earned the honor of representing Shanghai at the national finals in Beijing on Aug 9.

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Lululemon Summer Sweat Games

When: Aug 2

Where: Jing An Kerry Centre (Anyi Road and South Plaza), No 1515 West Nanjing Road

The Summer Sweat Games, the flagship annual community event by the Canadian athletic apparel brand lululemon, has been thriving since its debut in 2021. Now in its fifth year, the Shanghai regional final will take place on Aug 2 along Anyi Road in Jing'an district. The event promises a high-energy celebration featuring fun fitness challenges and community workout sessions. Both locals and visitors are invited to experience the brand's vibrant community spirit and be part of a citywide movement for summer sweat and wellness.

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Sources: Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce, official WeChat accounts of West Bund Museum, Gate M West Bund Dream Center, and Shanghai Xuhui Media Center