Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival or Lunar New Year, is the grandest festival in China, with a 7-day long holidays. If you are planning to be in Shanghai during this time, there is a lot going on in the city!
Chinese New Year is roughly analogous to Christmas for Chinese citizens, meaning that it’s arguably the biggest holiday in the country. It’s an excellent time to spend time with family, and the festive time of year to enjoy fun activities and attractions throughout the city.
Traditional Rituals and Events during the Chinese New Year in Shanghai
Yu Garden (Yuyuan)
Yuyuan is a sight not to be missed during the Spring festival. You can experience Chinese traditions of lanterns, dragon and lion dances, as well as joining in the game of guessing lantern riddles.
Many events take place in Yu Garden. It’s one of the most traditional spots in the city to celebrate the New Year and includes shopping and dining.
Chenghuang Miao (City God Temple of Shanghai)
In old China, each city had its God to protect and bring luck to its city. Shanghai is no exception with its City God Templelying within the old walled city, adjacent toYuyuan Garden. Today when local people talk about the “City God Temple”, it doesn’t only refer to the temple itself, but the large traditional district of commerce in the city surrounding the temple.
The City God Temple of Shanghai along its same-name traditional area is home to Shanghai’s most traditional place with over a hundred stores and shops, and most of these store buildings are nearly a century old. This is the most festive place to celebrate Chinese New year.
CCTV New Year’s Gala
The CCTV New Year’s Gala, often referred to “Chūn Wǎn” 春晚, is a variety entertainment show with a combination of modern media and folk customs.
The Gala takes place four hours before the beginning of the New Year ever since it was first broadcasted in 1983. It has become the “new folklore, new culture” of the Chinese, and a must-see TV show on New Year’s Eve.
Shanghai Disneyland Resort
Ignite the magical dream within your heart with special Chinese New Year Events and Offerings at Shanghai Disney Resort – January 19 – February 19, 2019.
Immerse yourself in the colors and pageantry of an authentic Chinese New Year celebration with some Disney magic!
Start The Year of the Pig with an authentic Chinese ceremony accompanied by Mickey and his friends!
Light Show at the Bund
The time of this famous night, an incredible crowd will be present on the Bund to attend this show which is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in the world.
Every year, the Bund transforms itself during the Chinese New Year into a veritable show of light.
Pujiang River Cruise Tour
Another excellent way to see the city and enjoy its festive atmosphere is with a river cruise and enjoy the view of the Bund.
Soft reminder:
Around 60% of Shanghai’s population is leaving the big city to enjoy this time with their family. A lot of places will be closed during that time.
Also, the fireworks are no longer allowed in Shanghai.