Shanghai Shopping Festival | May Day holiday guide

Shanghai is rolling out a series of shopping, dining, cultural, and leisure events during the 2026 Shanghai Shopping Festival, offering residents and visitors plenty of ways to celebrate the May Day holiday.

I CH festival at New Bund Red Lane

When: Now until May 5, noon to 8 pm

Where: No 12 Qianjiatan Road, Pudong New Area

This festival showcases more than 120 handmade brands, including 35 recognized national intangible cultural heritage brands. A major highlight this year is the live demonstration of crafts by 15 ICH inheritors. The event also introduces a unique crossover performance where robots share the stage with Jiangzhou Drum Music, Kunqu Opera, and Zhangzhou Glove Puppetry.

Asian bazaar at Super Brand Mall

When: Now until May 5

Where: No 168 West Lujiazui Road, Pudong New Area

This bazaar offers a "micro-vacation" that captures the essence of diverse Asian cultures. Visitors can take photos with iconic Thai-style tuk-tuks, savor authentic Monthong durians and fresh coconuts, or explore Japanese Mino-ware ceramics and handkerchiefs. The market also features a variety of popular snacks and vintage accessories from South Korea.

Cocktail festival at LU1885

When: Now until May 5, 2 pm to 10 pm

Where: No 665 Shangcheng Road, Pudong New Area

This festival boasts a lineup that includes five of Asia's Top 50 bars, such as Thailand's Opium, South Korea's Alice, and Hong Kong's Quinary, alongside over 20 elite domestic bars like Shanghai's UTC and Speak Low. A centerpiece of the event is world-champion mixologist Ouyang Zhian, who will perform a 30-minute creative drink demonstration on May 1 at 7 pm, showcasing his exclusive 2026 recipes. The festive atmosphere is further enhanced by a rotating schedule of jazz, lawn DJ sets, African drumming, and sunset dance performances.

Spring gathering at Sof Garden

When: Now until May 2

Where: No 851 Julu Road, Jing'an district

Modern teahouse Chagee has teamed up with trendsetter media Nowre to host a lively market at Sof Garden. Visitors can enjoy a cup of tea while participating in DIY handicraft workshops, stamp-collection challenges, and lucky draws. Fashion-forward attendees can also browse a curated selection of second-hand clothing and accessories.

Quality life festival at Zhenru Unipark Max

When: Now until May 4

Where: No 1 Alley 699, Tongchuan Road, Putuo district

This festival centers on five themed evenings: Zhenru Night, Food Night, Ping-pong Night, Senior Night, and Youth Night. A major highlight is the bread festival, which brings together 60 popular bakery brands from across Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces.

Global food festival at Changfeng Joy City

When: Now until May 5

Where: No 196 Daduhe Road, Putuo district

In celebration of its eighth anniversary, Changfeng Joy City is hosting a global food market featuring over 40 specialty brands from China and abroad. Shoppers can enjoy exclusive group-buying vouchers and participate in interactive reward programs.

First lychee festival at Fojoy Plaza

When: Now until May 5

Where: No 1888 Caoyang Road, Putuo district

This event features a "lychee ambassador" selection and hanfu (traditional Chinese attire) stage shows that showcase oriental elegance. There are also card game tournaments and lychee-peeling contests. Pet owners are welcome, with special sessions offering activities designed for furry friends, ensuring a sweet and inclusive holiday experience for everyone.

Intl coffee culture festival at North Bund

When: Now until May 4

Where: North Bund International Passenger Center, No 500 Dongdaming Road, Hongkou district

This 2.3-kilometer waterfront stretch gathers more than 300 brands, featuring global coffee brands alongside ICH crafts, time-honored brands, as well as films, music, and esports elements. Visitors can enjoy an all-around experience, including airship displays, recreational fishing, a water stage, flower displays, and light installations.

'Maritime Style' festival at Sea World

When: Now until May 5

Where: No 60 Wusongkou Road, Baoshan district

Situated within the Shanghai International Cruise Tourism Resort, this festival features activities including fireworks displays, music festivals, e-sports leagues, and a family marathon. Visitors can also explore an Aldi pop-up store and a special "cruise plus market" shopping experience.

'Auto+' festival at Jiangqiao Wanda Plaza

When: Now until May 5

Where: No 1051 West Jinshajiang Road, Jiading district

This event focuses on the integration of the automotive industry with cultural tourism. It features a market showcasing local ICH, creative products, and specialty coffee.

Spring gathering at Zuibaichi Park

When: Now until May 5

Where: No 64 South Renmin Road, Songjiang district

In collaboration with the Shanghai International Flower Show, this park is hosting over 10 cultural activities that blend classical horticulture with traditional arts. Highlights include an azalea exhibition, Songjiang-themed sketching displays, live pingtan (a traditional storytelling and singing art form) and opera performances, and a youth Go tournament.

Coffee-themed market at Zhujiajiao

When: Now until May 4

Where: Dadian Lake, Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, Qingpu district

Set on the lawns by Dadian Lake, this lakeside coffee market combines coffee with water-town aesthetics and automotive-culture elements. It offers a relaxed lakeside setting ideal for holiday outings and photo-friendly strolls.

Pet-friendly carnival at Nine Trees Future Art Center

When: Now until May 5

Where: Nine Trees Future Art Center, No 99 Shuhuan Road, Fengxian district

Titled "More Furry No Worry", this pet-friendly carnival features over 100 activities designed for animals and their owners, including paddleboard duck-catching games and pet pool challenges. Admission and 24-hour parking are entirely free. The venue offers live music, trunk markets, horse riding, and more.

A friendly note: Please ensure that pets are vaccinated and kept on a leash for safety and enjoyment.

(Source: Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce)

Source: Intl Services Shanghai