Spring Festival or Chinese New Year 2025 in Shanghai

Chinese New Year (CNY), also known as the Spring Festival or Lunar New Year, is the real crown jewel on Shanghai's holiday calendar. There is so much going on in Shanghai at this time of year that it is definitely worth a visit. From traditional temple celebrations and firework spectaculars to lantern fairs, the city offers numerous ways to experience Chinese culture in the midst of its biggest holiday.

Longhua Temple Celebration

The traditional celebration of the Chinese New Year in Shanghai is marked by massive people gathering near the Longhua Temple to hear the famous bell strike 108 times. You might be curious–why 108 times? This number is a symbolical one and is believed to bring luck, prosperity, and longevity. Afterwards, you will be entertained by fantastic Chinese dances, including lion and dragon dancing performances.

Besides all the revelry and merriment, devotees come to Longhua Temple to pray, give their offerings, and ask for blessings in the upcoming lunar year. Incense burning is also an important part of the Chinese New Year celebration at the temple. During other times of the year, the temple also hosts a renowned fair, where you can witness numerous cultural demonstrations and purchase souvenirs.

Hours & Admission

During the Spring Festival, Longhua Temple is completely free to enter, but its opening hours vary. On Chinese New Year's Eve, the temple is usually open from 7 am until 4 pm and from 9 pm until 2 am, while on the first day of the Chinese New Year, it's typically open from around 3:30 am until 6 pm.

CNY at Yuyuan Garden (January–early February, 2025)

A stunning piece of architecture in the heart of bustling Shanghai, Yuyuan Garden draws thousands of people every year to attend a traditional Chinese New Year celebration. The garden's buildings, pavilions, and ponds are decorated with customary red lanterns and other Spring Festival adornments. Visitors come here to enjoy the signature dragon sculpture, beautiful scenery, and the atmosphere of festive joy and cultural heritage. Yuyuan Garden also hosts a lantern show, which boasts beautiful light displays.

Enjoy traditional performances, Spring Festival delicacies, and souvenirs from vendors at this mesmerizing place. The garden is usually open from 9 am until 2 pm, but opening hours might vary.

Lunar New Year Celebrations at Shanghai Disneyland (late January–February, 2025)

Another great way to celebrate Lunar New Year is by enjoying the thrilling rides at one of Shanghai's biggest amusement parks, Shanghai Disneyland. Each year, the park holds a grand celebration of Chinese New Year, coupled with its usual entertainment. From exciting rollercoasters, carousels, and midway rides to mouthwatering corn dogs and other foods, Shanghai Disneyland is worth visiting any time of the year.

You can make a wish at a Wishing Garden, interact with your favorite characters at the Mickey Avenue, and witness a traditional drumming ceremony. On Lunar New Year, people flood to the park, wanting to witness one of the biggest fireworks spectacles in the city.

Fireworks & Places to Eat

Clearly, no CNY celebration would be complete without a fireworks display, but Shanghai has prohibited setting off fireworks in the city itself. Some pyrotechnic spectaculars might take place in the countryside and outside the city. If you'd like to enjoy a delicious meal, head to Sir Elly's restaurant for modern European fare and a front-row seat to Pudong's horizon. Or, go to any less-known restaurant to watch the breathtaking cityscape illuminated by dazzling nightlights.