Top Spring Festival Events to Catch in the City

As the Year of the Horse gallops in, Shanghai transforms into a dazzling wonderland of red lanterns and joyful celebrations. From the historic charm of Yuyuan Garden's iconic lantern show to the modern spectacles along the Bund, the city offers an unforgettable blend of ancient customs and contemporary excitement. 

Whether you're visiting landmark buildings in bustling Lujiazui, watching breathtaking fireworks light up the skyline at Disney resort, or exploring vibrant markets filled with local crafts and street performances, Shanghai's Spring Festival events promise magical moments for both visitors and residents of all ages. 

Corral your friends and family together, and gallop into the Year of the Horse at Shanghai Disney Resort, where the new year's zodiac animal Bullseye from Pixar Animation Studios' "Toy Story" films will make its debut at the Shanghai resort and celebrate the Spring Festival with Mickey and Friends. Through March 3, the resort will present an exciting mix of traditional and fresh celebrations, infused with magical charm that invites friends and families to reunite for an unforgettable new year experience. From horse-inspired installations and classic Disney celebrations to festive feasts, treats and new year gifts, visitors can catch all the magic together with their loved ones at the resort during the Spring Festival.
Date: Through March 3
Venue: Shanghai Disney Resort

Celebrate the Chinese New Year on the Kang Ning cruise ship with festive decorations. The first four passengers will receive a Year of the Horse mascot.
Date: February 17-24
Venue: Pier 2, Shiliupu Pier

In a partnership with Hasbro, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower becomes a "My Little Pony" fantasy, with the City Plaza in front of the tower featuring colorful installations themed around the Year of the Horse and characters such as Twilight Sparkle and Rainbow Dash. The collaborative event includes interactive games, family workshops and live performances.
Date: Through February 27
Venue: Oriental Pearl TV Tower

The ice and snow festival features an ice rink by the Huangpu River, decked out with an ice-and-snow theme, photo spots, live performances, festive stalls and hands-on workshops.
Date: Through February 28
Venue: North Bund International Passenger Center

Shanghai Wild Animal Park will host horse-themed events to celebrate the Year of the Horse, as well as other activities to meet giant panda pigeon pair, Qian Ran and Qian Yi, and star animals such as chimpanzee Ding Ding, spider monkey Dou Dou and kangaroo Gangzi. Qian Ran and Qian Yi were born in August 2025.
Date: Through March 31
Venue: Shanghai Wild Animal Park

This light show centers on the Year of the Horse, mixing visuals inspired by Xu Beihong's painting, folk traditions and Spring Festival culture across multiple spots along and around Nanjing Road W. such as Zhangyuan, Maoming Road N. and Wujiang Road.
Date: February 15-23
Venue: Zhangyuan, Maoming Road N., Wujiang Road and commercial hubs along Nanjing Road W.

Considered the best place to celebrate the Chinese New Year in Shanghai, this year's Yuyuan lantern show has expanded beyond the Yuyuan Garden Malls for the first time to Fuyou Road and Fangbang Road M. Featuring traditional lantern craftsmanship integrated with innovative lighting art, it presents a stunning visual spectacle where tradition harmonizes with innovation.
Date: Through March 3
Venue: Yuyuan Cultural District (including Yuyuan Garden Malls, Bund Finance Center)

In addition to its resident shows "ERA" and "Happy Circus," Shanghai Circus City will host interactive activities and new year fairs from 10am to 9pm from February 17 to 23, during the first seven days of the Chinese New Year.
Date: February 17-23
Venue: Shanghai Circus City

Featuring around 300 pieces dating from the 1910s onward, the exhibition traces the stylistic evolution of the traditional Chinese women's dress and offers viewers a peek into how its design changes along with shifting tastes and social tides. The exhibits are drawn primarily from the donation of Patricia Pei, the half-sister of famed architect IM Pei, as well as from the personal collection of Taiwanese singer Jeff Chang.
Date: Through May 5
Venue: Shanghai Museum (People's Square)

The Ballet Flamenco de Granada blends Spanish flamenco with the iconic story of "The Phantom of the Opera" in the dance drama, showcasing intense footwork, gripping storytelling and dramatic, expressive dance by the performers.
Date: February 20 and 21
Venue: West Bund Theater

Source:  City News Service