8 Holiday Christmas Events in Shanghai This December 2025

Christmas in Shanghai

As December approaches, Shanghai settles into a bright, cheerful rhythm, quickly becoming one of the easiest places to enjoy christmas events in shanghai. Streets light up, malls decorate early, and people naturally gather in the city’s busiest spots to take photos and enjoy the seasonal vibe. It’s not a Western-style holiday, but the way Shanghai embraces it feels casual, creative, and very inviting.

That’s where this guide steps in. With so many christmas events in shanghai popping up all over the city, it’s totally normal to think, “Okay… but where do I even begin?” Just treat this as your chill, friendly sneak peek at the eight big festive spots—nothing heavy, just enough to help you figure out what matches your vibe. If you’re hoping for a December plan that feels easy, fun, and zero-stress, you’re definitely in the right place. Let’s see what Shanghai’s got lined up for you.

1. Christkindlmarkt German Traditional Market at The Bund — classic German vibes

Christkindlmarkt German Traditional Market at The Bund

This is Shanghai's largest and most authentic European Christmas market, perfectly positioned along The Bund with views of both the historic waterfront and Pudong's modern skyline. Over 40 wooden chalets line the pathways, creating an atmosphere straight out of a German Christmas village. Many visitors say this market captures the warm, communal spirit that defines christmas events in shanghai.

What Makes It Special:

The market offers authentic German Christmas treats and traditional crafts. The hot mulled wine (glühwein) is legendary among expats, spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest. Food highlights include Zeitgeist's German sausages (¥60-80), Nussmeister's roasted almonds coated in cinnamon sugar (¥45), and Papito's Dutch pancakes (¥50).

A vintage carousel adds nostalgic charm, spinning slowly in the background as Christmas carols play. The market comes alive at dusk around 5pm when the lights begin to twinkle and crowds surge, but early afternoon offers better opportunities for browsing without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds. If holiday nights got you itching to escape the city for a bit, check out Best Weekend Getaway Tours from Shanghai.

Shopping: Handcrafted wooden nutcrackers, glass ornaments, cashmere scarves (¥180-300), scented candles, and unique Shanghai-themed Christmas decorations including miniature shikumen house ornaments (¥85).

Insider Tip: Arrive around 2pm on Saturdays to beat the evening rush. The lighting is perfect for photos, and you can browse stalls comfortably. By 5pm, expect heavy crowds. Small pets are allowed; larger pets are not permitted.

2. Shanghai Disney Resort Christmas Celebration — festive family fun

Shanghai Disney Resort Christmas Celebration

Disney Resort transforms into a winter wonderland for nearly four months, making it ideal whether you're visiting in November or planning a New Year's trip. This is Shanghai's premier family-friendly Christmas destination. Families often describe it as one of the most memorable christmas events in shanghai because of the shows, music, and seasonal energy.

Mickey's Magical Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony happens daily at 5:30pm in front of the Enchanted Storybook Castle. Mickey, Minnie, and friends join a live band to count down as thousands of lights illuminate the towering tree. The moment captures pure Disney magic that appeals to both children and adults.

Holiday Shows include "Holiday Cheer with Mickey" (interactive stage performance where kids can dance along), "Christmas Swing Dance" (high-energy 1920s-style show), and character meet-and-greets in special holiday costumes.

Best Strategy: Book tickets for early December weekdays to avoid crowds and high prices. The park is busiest December 24-26 when Chinese families and couples flood attractions. Weekday visits in the first two weeks of December offer full festive atmosphere without the chaos.

Family Tips: Download the Shanghai Disney Resort app for live wait times. Arrive at opening time, do rides first, save shows for afternoon. The park is outdoors, so dress warmly. Budget ¥200-300 per person for food beyond admission.

3. BFC Bund Pokemon Christmas Carnival — playful themed fun

BFC Bund Pokemon Christmas Carnival

Shanghai's most Instagram-worthy Christmas destination features a massive 15-meter Pokemon-themed Christmas tree with Pikachu perched at the top and Poke Balls as oversized ornaments. Next to it sits a giant Snorlax ball pit that delights children and adults alike. Its playful design and weekend themes make it one of the most dynamic christmas events in shanghai for younger visitors.

Weekend Market Themes:

BFC rotates themes across different weekends, creating variety for repeat visitors:

• December 7-8: Mini Bund Bread Festival meets Finland Christmas Market - 30+ bakery stalls with artisan bread, Nordic treats, Finnish hot cocoa, and Scandinavian design items
• December 14-15: Bund Bread Festival Round 2 - Expanded bakery offerings with bread-making workshops for kids
• December 21-22: Dianping Must-Eat List Restaurant Market - 50+ vendors from Shanghai's top-rated restaurants offering gourmet street food at market prices

ROLLER at THE BUND: A unique feature that operates as a daytime ice-skating rink and transforms into a dance floor at night. After 7pm, a DJ takes over with Christmas-themed cocktails (¥60-90) and food trucks.

Perfect For: Anime fans, Pokemon lovers, young couples seeking trendy date spots, families with kids who need more entertainment than traditional markets, and anyone wanting a free, modern Christmas experience.

Photography: Come during blue hour around 5:30pm for the perfect balance of natural and artificial light. The giant Pokemon tree creates a dreamy glow that's highly photogenic.

4. Kerry Center JAKC Christmas — chic urban style

Kerry Center JAKC Christmas

Kerry Center transforms into an upscale Christmas destination with a glowing Christmas tree centerpiece, wooden chalet-style market stalls, and limited-edition Christmas snacks from trendy bakeries and cafes. Many locals consider this space a polished, urban version of christmas events in shanghai, especially for photography lovers.

Star Attraction: The three-story mirror corridor connecting South and North areas creates infinite reflections of Christmas lights - a photographer's dream. Head to South Area, 3rd floor around 6pm when the lighting is optimal for stunning reflection photos.

Ideal For: Fashion-forward young professionals, Instagram content creators, and shoppers seeking a more upscale, less crowded market experience in central Shanghai. The sophisticated atmosphere attracts a trendy crowd.

5. West Bund Dream Center Ice Wonderland — romantic ice skating

West Bund Dream Center Ice Wonderland

This 1,500-square-meter outdoor real ice rink offers Shanghai's most romantic winter activity. The venue features a giant Christmas tree, 2025 France-themed Time Train installation, nightly artificial snowfall at 7pm, and spectacular light shows. Many couples choose this rink as their top pick among christmas events in shanghai thanks to its romantic nighttime atmosphere.

Special Events: Select dates feature professional ice skating performances. Check their official WeChat account closer to your visit for the performance schedule.

Perfect For: Couples seeking romantic winter activities, ice skating enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to experience a true winter atmosphere despite Shanghai's mild climate. The artificial snow creates magical photo opportunities.

Practical Notes: Book online in advance for weekends, as popular time slots fill up. Weekday afternoons typically have availability for walk-ins. Skate rentals included in admission price.

6. Paulaner Winter Market at North Bund — riverside German treats

Paulaner Winter Market at North Bund

This riverside Christmas market combines authentic German beer culture with stunning Huangpu River views. Browse market stalls while enjoying craft beer, bratwurst, pretzels, and other German specialties. Visitors often list this market among the most authentic christmas events in shanghai because of its riverside setting and traditional European flavors.

Unique Selling Point: The location offers unobstructed river views of both The Bund's historic buildings and Pudong's modern skyline, creating a spectacular backdrop for Christmas celebrations.

Best For: Beer enthusiasts, expats seeking authentic German Christmas atmosphere, and anyone who wants to combine market browsing with casual waterfront dining.

Insider Tip: Arrive early on weekends to secure riverside seating. The outdoor location means you should dress warmly, especially for evening visits.

7. Hongqiao Xintiandi Nordic Christmas Market — cozy Nordic charm

Hongqiao Xintiandi Nordic Christmas Market

This Scandinavian-themed Christmas market features Nordic-style wooden chalets, a giant Christmas tree centerpiece, and cozy treats including hot cocoa, roasted sweet potatoes, and Spanish churros. Its relaxed Nordic setup offers a quieter alternative within the wider range of christmas events in shanghai.

Perfect For: Travelers staying near Hongqiao Airport or Railway Station (extremely convenient location), Nordic design enthusiasts, and families seeking a more intimate, less crowded market experience.

Atmosphere: The market emphasizes hygge - the Danish concept of coziness. Expect warm lighting, comfortable seating areas, and a relaxed pace compared to busier central Shanghai markets.

8. Xintiandi Winter Slow Market — artistic shikumen fusion

Xintiandi Winter Slow Market

This market uniquely blends Christmas celebrations with Shanghai's iconic shikumen (stone-gate house) architecture, creating a fusion of Eastern and Western aesthetics. The historic lanes provide an atmospheric backdrop for handmade crafts, designer goods, artisan products, local wines, and gourmet food stalls. This artistic atmosphere makes Xintiandi one of the most culturally distinctive christmas events in shanghai.

Unique Appeal: The contrast between 1920s traditional shikumen architecture and modern Christmas decorations creates extraordinary photo opportunities and represents Shanghai's cultural fusion.

Best For: Culture enthusiasts, design lovers, those seeking unique Shanghai-made souvenirs, and anyone interested in experiencing how traditional Shanghai embraces Western holidays.

Shopping Focus: Unlike food-heavy markets elsewhere, Xintiandi emphasizes quality crafts and artistic products from local designers and artisans.

If December’s lights set the mood, spring traditions shine even brighter in Exploring the Cultural Charm of the Best Spring Festivals in China.

Other Christmas Experiences in Shanghai — discover more festive corners of the city

Christmas Dining in Shanghai — where seasonal meals feel extra special

Shanghai's restaurants fully embrace Christmas despite it not being an official Chinese holiday. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are among the busiest nights for dining, with restaurants booking up weeks in advance. Young Chinese couples treat the occasion as romantic - essentially a second Valentine's Day.

The Peninsula Shanghai offers a Christmas Eve Gala Dinner (¥1,888 per person) with an 8-course Western feast, live jazz, and stunning Bund views. Their second-floor terrace transforms into a Florentine Christmas village from November 29-December 25. Reservations essential by December 10. Waldorf Astoria creates a Florentine Christmas Village (¥888-1,588) on their terrace with Italian specialties, carolers, stilt walkers, and Santa photo opportunities. Family-friendly with a Christmas Tree Playground for kids.

Christmas at Churches — a look at meaningful holiday services

While Christmas isn't a public holiday in China, Shanghai's churches hold special services for the international community and Chinese Christians.

Shanghai Community Church (53 Hengshan Road, Line 1/7) - Christmas Eve 7pm English service, Christmas Day 10am family service. Arrive 30-40 minutes early as the 1,000+ seat venue fills quickly.

St. Ignatius Cathedral (158 Puxi Road) - Shanghai's largest Catholic church with midnight mass December 24 at 11:30pm. Stunning Gothic architecture makes it worth visiting even for non-religious cultural experience.

Christmas Lights and Photo Spots — stroll through Shanghai’s glowing winter nights

The Bund - Best viewed 5pm-8pm. Historic buildings lit with golden lights create classic Shanghai Christmas ambiance. Walk from Garden Bridge to Yan'an Road (1.5km).

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street - Giant illuminated snowflakes suspended above the 1.2km street. Best 6:30pm-9pm when crowds and energy peak.

Xintiandi - Shikumen buildings decorated with elegant Western Christmas lights, creating sophisticated fusion aesthetic perfect for evening strolls.

Practical Planning Information — make your holiday trip smooth and stress‑free

Weather & Packing — dress right for Shanghai’s cool December

Shanghai's winter is mild but damp, and most Christmas markets are outdoors. Expect cold evenings and occasional drizzle, so plan layered clothing rather than heavy winter gear.

Think more like San Francisco or London winter than Beijing’s deep cold.

Transportation Tips — move easily between all the festive spots

Public transport is the most reliable way to reach all major Christmas markets—especially The Bund, Disney, West Bund, Jing’an, and Xintiandi.

Metro (Recommended): Runs until 11pm; extended to midnight on Dec 24–25. A 3‑day pass (¥45) is useful if visiting multiple markets.

DiDi (Taxi App): Surge pricing rises 2–3× on Christmas Eve 5pm–midnight. If traffic is jammed around The Bund, switch to Metro or shared bikes.

Crowd Levels & Best Timing — plan your visit to avoid peak rush

Christmas week draws heavy foot traffic, especially around The Bund, Disney, BFC, and Xintiandi. It’s lively but not overwhelming if you plan ahead.

For smoother experiences, visit markets earlier in the day (2–5pm) before night crowds rush in.

Frequently Asked Questions — quick answers for your holiday plans

Q: Do they celebrate Christmas in Shanghai?

Yes, but differently than Western countries. Christmas isn't a public holiday (December 25 is a working day), but Shanghai fully embraces the season. Shopping malls decorate elaborately, restaurants offer Christmas menus, and young Chinese treat it as a romantic occasion. The celebration emphasizes festive atmosphere and socializing rather than religious observance.

Q: Is there a Christmas market in Shanghai?

Yes, Shanghai hosts 8+ major Christmas markets in 2025. The largest is the Christkindlmarkt German Market at The Bund (Nov 26-Dec 28). Markets range from traditional European-style to modern themed festivals, most operating late November through late December.

Q: Is it worth going to Shanghai in December?

Absolutely. December is one of the best months to visit Shanghai. Weather is mild (5-12°C) compared to northern China, hotel prices are 30-40% lower than peak season (except Dec 24-26), and the Christmas atmosphere offers unique cultural experiences. You'll see fascinating fusion of Western traditions and Chinese culture you won't find elsewhere.

Q: What should I wear in Shanghai in December?

Layer up with medium to heavy jacket (not Arctic parka), long pants, closed-toe waterproof shoes, scarf, gloves, and beanie for outdoor markets. Think London or San Francisco winter, not New York or Boston extremes.

Q: Can I use credit cards at Christmas markets?

Most market stalls accept only Alipay or WeChat Pay (mobile payment). Set up one of these apps with your foreign card or bring ¥200-500 cash. Hotels, major restaurants, and department stores accept Visa/Mastercard.

Q: Do I need to book Disney tickets in advance?

Yes, especially for weekends and December 24-26. Tickets can sell out 1-2 weeks ahead during Christmas period. Book through official Shanghai Disney Resort app 1 week ahead for weekdays, 3-4 weeks for Christmas peak dates.