Happy New Year, Mamas and Papas! The long holiday is over, but the first weekend of January (Jan 3-4) is packed with good stuff before we settle into the routine. Forget the typical trips—we've got the One Voice Children's Choir making a rare stop and a super cute pet and family fun day down in Jinshan. Get out there!
Quick Picks
萌宠迎新・暖冬百家
金山区张堰镇百家村荡里路
The pet-friendly market/hike at Baijia Village might have free entry to the main market area, focusing on local goods and pet interaction.
One Voice Children's Choir 2026 New Year Concert
Grand Theatre
A high-quality, angelic indoor concert perfect for a cozy, cultured weekend, regardless of the weather.
乐满冬日假期 (Happy Winter Holiday)
上海乐高乐园度假区
The LEGOLAND holiday theme is running its last days, offering plenty of hands-on, brick-building fun for the under-8 crowd.
One Voice Children's Choir 2026 New Year Concert
The famous, award-winning choir from Utah is back for a very limited run to celebrate the New Year. Their voices are angelic and it’s a proper, high-calibre indoor event – great for escaping the early January chill.
Why we picked it: This is a rare, high-quality touring performance with limited dates (Jan 3-4) that's perfect for a cultured family outing.
“登临出世界” 展览 (TA: Higher Heights Exhibition)
This art exhibition uses the 'tower' motif to explore space and spirit through contemporary art installations and videos. It's more abstract, so maybe better for older kids or teens interested in modern art/architecture.
Why we picked it: A major contemporary art exhibition running through the start of the year, offering a sophisticated cultural break.
2026年上海婴童用品展 / 中国玩具展 (CKE/CTE Trade Shows)
Okay, this is technically a trade show for baby/toy industry pros, but it often has public viewing days or is good for spotting the *very* newest gear/trends before they hit stores. Check if the public entrance is open for CKE/CTE this weekend.
Why we picked it: It's a massive, industry-focused event happening downtown that might offer a sneak peek at 2026's hot new toys (check for public access!).
2026江畔冰雪季 (Riverbank Ice & Snow Season)
The North Bund riverside has an outdoor ice rink right on the water! While the Jan 1st highlight is over, this is a great chance for some winter outdoor fun—check if the weekend market is running.
Why we picked it: It's a unique Shanghai winter experience with an outdoor ice rink right by the Huangpu River.
“太阳手帐节” (Sun Diary Festival)
Part of Hongkou's New Year push, this festival is meant to feature art exhibitions, creative markets, and hands-on workshops. It's a good spot for creative teens or crafty parents.
Why we picked it: Offers hands-on creative workshops and markets which are great for a change of pace from big attractions.
龙华冬会 (Longhua Winter Fair)
The Longhua Temple area is hosting a winter fair featuring 'New Chinese Style' atmospheres, traditional New Year customs, and performances. It's a great way to absorb some authentic local festive energy.
Why we picked it: An immersive cultural experience combining temple grounds with seasonal traditional activities.
东平国家森林公园 迎新骑行 (Dongping Forest Park New Year Ride)
Head out to Chongming for a low-carbon New Year's activity: a 6km guided bike ride through the massive park's water-metasequoia forest. Great fresh air and a planned activity, not just aimless wandering.
Why we picked it: A healthy, organized outdoor event promoting fresh air away from the city bustle.
蟠龙新天地“冰火相逢” (Panlong New World 'Ice & Fire')
Qingpu's Panlong New World is combining water features with a huge outdoor real ice rink for that magical winter feeling. It's a great combo of old architecture and modern winter fun.
Why we picked it: The unique setup featuring a large, real outdoor ice rink amidst historical architecture is a rare winter treat.
“乐满冬日假期” (Happy Winter Holiday)
This is your final weekend to experience the festive brick decorations, special shows, and holiday-themed building activities at LEGOLAND before they pack it all away for the year.
Why we picked it: It is the final two days (Jan 3rd & 4th) for this seasonal LEGOLAND attraction.
萌宠迎新・暖冬百家 (Pet Welcoming Winter Fun)
This is a fun, quirky mix of a New Year's market focused on local produce and pet supplies, featuring a pet-friendly hike and even a duck-catching game! Definitely a local gem way out south.
Why we picked it: It's a super quirky, local-feeling 'pet + parent + market' fusion event happening in the suburbs over the weekend.
乐满冬日假期 (Happy Winter Holiday)
The LEGOLAND winter theme wraps up this Sunday, so it's your last chance to catch the holiday decorations, special brick builds, and festive shows. Perfect for little hands that love to create.
Why we picked it: It's the absolute last day (Jan 4th) for this seasonal, kid-focused holiday event at LEGOLAND.
YUE汇趣市集 (YUE Hui Fun Market)
Celebrating the Xujiahui Book Institute's 3rd anniversary, this market fuses cultural depth with market vitality. Expect unique finds, creative stalls, and an overall calm, intellectual vibe.
Why we picked it: A literary-themed market celebrating an anniversary—much more unique than a standard weekend fair.
“日出金山”系列活动 (Sunrise Jinshan Series)
While Jan 1st was the sunrise day, the Fishing Village often keeps special markets and cultural displays going into the first weekend. Check for the 'Fisherman's Smoke & Fire Breakfast Market' for local snacks.
Why we picked it: Offers a taste of local seaside culture and traditional food, even a day or two after the main New Year event.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Shanghai this weekend?
Based on the listings, the best option that might be free entry (though check for activity fees) is the 萌宠迎新・暖冬百家 event in Jinshan District, which features a market and pet activities.
What's a good indoor event if it rains on Saturday?
The One Voice Children's Choir 2026 New Year Concert at the Grand Theatre on Saturday, Jan 3rd, is a fantastic, high-quality, and completely indoor option for the whole family.
Where can I take my 5-year-old this weekend?
For a younger crowd, your best bet is the final weekend of the 乐满冬日假期 at the Shanghai LEGOLAND Resort on Sunday, January 4th, for guaranteed hands-on fun.