The air turns crisp, the streets begin to glitter, and a familiar festive magic descends upon Shanghai. From the scent of mulled wine at traditional markets to the joyful snowfall on Mickey Avenue, the city transforms into a winter wonderland. This is your essential guide to experiencing the very best of Shanghai's 2025 Christmas season.
🎄 The Christmas Market Experience
Bund Christmas Market
The classic European-style market returns to Yuanmingyuan Road with over 40 wooden chalets surrounding a towering Christmas tree. Sip authentic German mulled wine while browsing handmade crafts and gifts. Don't miss the Santa's Grotto for perfect family photos.
-Dates & Times：Nov 26 - Dec 28, 2025; Wed-Fri 3 PM-10 PM; Sat-Sun 12 PM-10 PM; Closed Mon-Tue
-Location & Admission：Yuanmingyuan Road / Beijing East Road (near the Bund); Pre-sale: ¥30, At-door: ¥40; Free for children under 130cm
Paulaner Brauhaus Market (North Bund)
As Shanghai's longest-running Christmas market, this event offers a unique experience across three floors and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the Bund and Pudong. It's a great place to enjoy Bavarian flavors, Chinese dishes, and international cuisine alongside classic German Paulaner beer.
-Dates & Times：Dec 5 - Dec 28, 2025 (Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays & Christmas Day); Fri 5 PM-9 PM; Sat-Sun 1 PM-9 PM; Christmas 1 PM-10 PM
-Location & Admission：Paulaner Brauhaus (North Bund); ¥40 (includes food & drink discount); Free for children 10 & under
BFC Waitan Fengjing Christmas Carnival
The festive season along Shanghai's Bund unfolds with a packed schedule of events, beginning with the CRUSH Bund Clink in the Park on November 22-23, followed by a series of Bund Winter Christmas Markets running on November 29-30, December 6-7, December 20-21, and December 27-28. A special Top Pet Fair & Finnish Christmas Market is also scheduled for December 13-14. These events collectively present the city's premier Christmas market experience, showcasing over 40 gourmet F&B brands, more than 20 curated holiday gift selections, an electronic music party welcoming pets and owners, and a romantic "First Snow in Shanghai" special event for a truly memorable close to the year.
-Location：BFC (Bund Finance Center)
Hongqiao Xintiandi's "New Journey"
Experience the magic with 100 magical snowfall moments that will fill your Christmas with ultimate anticipation. ❄️ Here, light responds to every heartbeat, creating unforgettable interactive experiences.
✨ 6 Must-See Light Installations:
"Ride to the Rising Stars" - Pedal to make giant stars ascend! This AHA Art Festival favorite offers full ceremonial vibes.
"Flowing Light, New Language" - Wave to activate light streams in this gesture-responsive art by Tongji University.
"Pine Forest of New Fortune" - A 5-meter tall pine forest where you can DIY felt art on the installation.
"Bamboo-Woven Starfield" - China Academy of Art's bamboo craft星空, where playing claw machines supports charity!
"Meteor Dome" at South Performance Plaza
"Glistening Crystals" on Bada Street - perfect photo backdrops!
🛍️ 6th Light & Shadow Market:
Christmas cottage village with star-themed decorations
30+ immersive light parade performances with Santa sightings
Handmade accessories, mulled wine & Christmas merchandise
Best of all: it's completely FREE! Avoid the Bund crowds and enjoy this photogenic, less-crowded alternative.
-Dates & Times：: Nov 21, 2025 - Jan 6, 2026. Open Thu-Sun (Nov 21-Jan 4); Daily during Dec 18-28 & Dec 31-Jan 4
-Location : Hongqiao Xintiadi (multiple zones)
Disney Fantasy Winter Season
The resort transforms into a winter wonderland from November 2025 to March 2026. Must-see experiences include the "Magical Snowfall Moment" on Mickey Avenue, where snow falls under the neon lights, and the special Disney Winter Fantasy Parade. In the evenings, don't miss the castle projection show with winter-themed 3D effects and music.
💡 Travel Tips for Your Visit
To make the most of your Christmas outing in Shanghai, keep these tips in mind.
Plan Ahead: Check the latest dates and opening times for your chosen markets or events on their official social media channels or websites before you go, as details can change.
Travel Smart: Traffic and crowds are significant during Christmas. Use the metro to avoid parking hassles. The Bund area is well-served by Metro Line 2, 10, and 12.
Dress for Comfort: Shanghai in December is cold. Dress warmly in layers, as you'll likely be spending a lot of time outdoors. Comfortable shoes are a must.
Payment: While most established vendors accept mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay, it's always wise to carry some small cash for smaller purchases at market stalls.
As the golden lights of the Bund twinkle against the winter sky and the sound of Christmas carols fills the air, you'll carry home more than just photographs. You'll take with you the warmth of Shanghai's holiday spirit—a magical blend of East and West that turns this vibrant city into the perfect Christmas destination. May your Shanghai Christmas be filled with wonder, joy, and unforgettable memories! Want to learn more? Feel free to contact Hills!
