September in Shanghai is full of pop-up surprises! From art-inspired markets and movie-themed adventures to gourmet feasts, beach carnivals and pet-friendly fun, the city is buzzing with experiences you won't want to miss.

Whether you're out with family, catching up with friends, or enjoying some solo time, this guide has something for everyone.

The Big Artist Festival

When: 11 am to 9 pm, Sept 6-7 and Sept 13-14 (closes 8 pm on Sundays)

Where: New Bund Red Lane, No 12 Qianjiatan Road, Pudong New Area

Hosted by the Museum of Art Pudong, this festival is inspired by its blockbuster exhibition Paths to Modernity: Masterpieces from the Musee d'Orsay, Paris, the largest Musee d'Orsay show ever staged in China, already drawing more than 550,000 visits.

Expect more than 90 creative brands, interactive art experiences, food vendors and gripping installations featuring the likes of Van Gogh, Monet, Millet and Cezanne. Think of it as a giant open-air art market where masterpieces meet modern life!

Zootopia Walk at Xuhui Riverside

When: Now until Oct 31

Where: No 243 Ruining Road (railway area) and No 3398 Longteng Avenue (east riverside space)

Step into the world of Disney's Zootopia! With the film returning to cinemas, Xuhui Riverside has brought its vibrant animal metropolis to life. Classic scenes like Bunnyburrow, Central Station and Little Rodentia have been recreated, making this both a family-friendly playground and a global tourist attraction.

Starting Sept 6, the experience expands with even more iconic locations from Zootopia 2: At Tundratown, Rainforest District and Sahara Square. Pets are welcome and the riverside setting makes it perfect for photos, exploration and a little urban escape.

Juicy Burger Fest

When: 11 am to 9 pm, Sept 6-7

Where: Shenyuli, Suhewan MixC World

Back by popular demand, the legendary Juicy Burger Fest from Beijing is coming to Shanghai, and it's free!

More than 40 brands will serve up over 100 burger varieties, from classic cheeseburgers to bold new creations.

But it's more than just food: Expect live DJs, funk, hip-hop, indie pop and a Zumba-powered Fun Z Zone. Part burger heaven, part outdoor music party, it's a feast for both your tastebuds and your ears.

Urban Beach Carnival

When: Now until Sept 14

Mondays to Thursdays: 4 pm to 9 pm

Fridays to Sundays: 4 pm to 10:30 pm

Note: Opens at 7 pm on Sept 5; closed on the evening of Sept 13

Where: North Bund International Passenger Center

For 17 days, the North Bund transforms into a summer playground with real sand, a floating pickleball court, themed bars and a 60-meter stage on the Huangpu River.

Highlights include:

• True beach vibes with loungers, umbrellas and photo booths.
• Floating pickleball court with skyline views.
• Food and drinks from brands like Moutai cocktails and Cloudy Bay wine.
• Nightlife with DJ sets, live bands and a tower-turned-bar serving themed drinks like "Sexy Beach" and "Shanghai Sunset".

iTaGO Pet Market: Have You Eaten?

When: Now until Sept 7 (Fridays to Sundays)

Where: B1, 96 Plaza, No 796 Dongfang Road, Lujiazui, Pudong New Area

This isn't just a pet market, it's a playful adventure for humans and their furry friends.

Look out for:

• Watermelon contest: Speed-eating for dogs and owners, with a chance to win a "watermelon freedom card".
• Treasure hunt: Complete tasks in an RPG (role-playing game)-style quest for prizes.
• Wish pool: Pets can enter a prize draw while their humans shop.
• Pet passport: Get a "passport" for your pet and help them collect stamps at friendly stores. Your furry companion becomes a VIP guest on this playful city adventure!

Unfold Shanghai Art Book Fair

When: Sept 11-14

Public hours:

Sept 12 to 13: 10 am to 7 pm

Sept 14: 10 am to 6 pm

Where: Pearl Art Museum, 8F, Aegean Place shopping center, No 1588 Wuzhong Road, Minhang district

Launched in 2017, Unfold is a leading art book and publishing fair curated by Bananafish Bookstore. It's a hub where designers, publishers, authors and art lovers connect over book designs, paper art and the beauty of reading. This year, the Pearl Art Museum itself, an architectural artwork, is setting the stage, creating an inspiring backdrop for browsing, conversations and creative encounters.

Sources: Official WeChat accounts of the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, the Museum of Art Pudong, Shanghai Xuhui Media Center, Juicy Burger Fest, Shanghai Hongkou Media Center, UNFOLD2025