In this season of yule, take the family out and visit these merry winter markets. Pick up a cup of mulled wine for yourself, candied apple for the little ones, and browse through all the Christmassy goodness Shanghai has on offer!
Christmas Shindig at Shanghai Archwalk
On December 8-9, Urban Family is taking over Shanghai Archwalk to host a festive Christmas extravaganza. The 2018 Christmas Shindig will be a fun-filled, family-friendly gathering. Prepare for plenty of yuletide cheer as Archwalk transforms into a magical holiday village for the weekend. Attendees will join in on events such as live music performances, Santa Claus parades and a Christmas bazaar featuring gifts, DIY activities, games, tasty food, delicious drinks and so much more. Attendees will also receive a passport to collect stamps at shopping mall stores and vendors. Collect enough stamps and, you'll even receive a secret gift from Santa Claus himself! Registered attendees will receive a free Christmas gift bag. Best of all, it's free! RSVP is essential.
Dec 8-22, 11am-5pm. Free entry. Shanghai Archwalk, see event listing, RSVP here.
Jiashan Market's Christmas Market
You and your friends will be treated to a variety of delicious food, drinks, and gifts for the holiday season, all in a cozy and lively atmosphere. Nestled in the former French Concession and popular among ex-pats and local people alike, the Jiashan Market is the ideal place to eat, shop and socialize.
Dec 1,11am-4pm. Free entry. Jiashan Market, see event listing.
Commune Market Shanghai's Christmas Market
Stop by the Commune Market Shanghai's Christmas Market to enjoy food and drinks while browsing for the perfect gifts for your loved ones this holiday season.
Dec 1-2, 11am-6pm. Free entry. Surpass Court, see event listing.
The InterChamber Christmas Mixer
Join this event co-organized by all significant Chambers of Commerce in Shanghai and Suzhou for socializing and networking in a relaxed atmosphere. The entry price includes two drinks, buffet and live music.
Dec 5, 6.30-9.30pm. RMB175 (members), RMB185 (non-members). Paulaner (Raffled City Changning), see event listing.
Jing'an Christkindlmarkt Christmas Market
The traditional German Christkindlmarkt (Christmas Market) is back in Shanghai! The scent of baked apples, chestnuts, gingerbread and mulled wine, rum punch and tasty food fill the air, a festive glow, all the wonderful sounds of the season and delicious treats await you.
Nov 30-Dec 2, 12-9pm. RMB50 (including one mulled wine or punch), free entrance for kids under 12; Dec 7-16, 4-9pm. Free entry. Zeitgeist Bavarian Eatery & Bar, see event listing.
BLN Restaurant & Caterings' 12th Annual Christkindlmarkt
The magical time of the year is back. The authentic German Christmas market of BLN Restaurants & Caterings will be opening its doors from December 7-9. Stroll along the festively-decorated wooden huts and embrace the sweet smell of Christmas and enjoy traditional German delicacies.
Dec 7, 3-10pm; Dec 8, 11am-10pm; Dec 9, 11am-9pm. RMB30, free for kids under 10. Paulaner @ Expo, see event listing.
Christmas Makers Market at Hong En Church
Join Abundant Grace International Fellowship for its annual Christmas market, featuring a wide range of crafted gifts and holiday decorations.
Dec 9, 4.30pm-late. Hong En Church, see event listing here.
Christmas Market at un Caffe Bar
un Caffè Bar will take your shopping experience to a new level with a great market that pop up on the December 15. This European-style winter market will feature more than 20 vendors hawking an impressive selection of handcrafted gifts, food and drinks, plus workshops for adults and kids.
Dec 15, 11am-8pm. Free entry. un Caffe Bar, see event listing.
[Cover image via Unsplash]
For a list of winter fairs at Shanghai's international schools, click here.
For a guide on where to buy Christmas decorations, click here.