Hey Shenzhen parents! The New Year rush is over, but this first full weekend of 2026 is packed with cool stuff before the next holiday buzz. Forget the usual spots; we're looking at the tail end of some cool cultural happenings. Don't miss the last few days of the Nantou Ancient Town Kite Exhibition for some unique outdoor fun, and for the younger ones, check out the amazing “Dandelion Journey” itinerary activities if you can snag a spot!
Quick Picks
Futian Central Light Show
Central Futian District
See the CBD skyline come alive with dazzling light displays—completely free to view nightly.
Li Keran's Paintings Exhibition (Extended)
Shenzhen Art Museum (new venue)
A great indoor cultural experience to see a master's work before the extended run ends.
WOWO Petting Zoo (World of Window of the World Branch)
世界之窗店
Perfect for little ones to safely touch, hug, and feed cute animals.
南头古城风筝展 (Nantou Ancient Town Kite Exhibition)
This centuries-old town has been decked out with creative kites blending traditional and modern styles. It's a gorgeous spot for a family walk and photos before the Chinese New Year theme wraps up.
Why we picked it: Last chance to catch this unique, visually stunning kite art installation blended into a historical site.
“蒲公英奇旅”寒假冬令营 (Dandelion Journey Winter Camp)
This is a state-guided tour program for specific groups (e.g., migrant children, children with autism), but check if there are open spots for public 'experience' days, as it covers cool tech and city infrastructure.
Why we picked it: It offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look into Shenzhen's major industries and city development for older kids.
Futian Central Light Show
The spectacular Spring Festival-themed light show is still running on iconic buildings in Futian. Grab dinner nearby and head over for the light show sessions; great for little ones who don't mind a later night.
Why we picked it: It's a massive, free, high-tech visual spectacle that's signature Shenzhen, perfect for a weekend evening.
甘坑古镇打铁花 (Gankeng Ancient Town 'Iron Flower' Show)
Catch the spectacular intangible cultural heritage 'Iron Flower' show—it's essentially a traditional fireworks display using molten metal. Super dramatic and an awesome sensory experience for everyone.
Why we picked it: It runs through Jan 3rd (so it's on Saturday!), offering a fiery, traditional cultural performance that feels truly special.
Li Keran's Paintings Exhibition (Extended)
Catch the extended exhibition of Chinese master Li Keran's paintings at the new museum space. It’s a nice, calm indoor activity if the weather turns sour.
Why we picked it: The run has been extended, making this first weekend a good chance to catch significant Chinese art without the usual end-of-run crowds.
WOWO窝窝萌宠森友会
This petting zoo lets the little ones get hands-on with cute animals—touching, hugging, and feeding. It’s contained fun, great for burning toddler energy indoors/semi-outdoors.
Why we picked it: Guaranteed smiles from the under-5s who love getting up close and personal with friendly creatures.
Revo Open Air Sundays @ Revolucion Cocktail Bar
If your teens are older or you need a relaxed adult vibe after the kids are down, this Sunday event might be happening. It’s a cool bar scene that sometimes has a daytime/early evening vibe.
Why we picked it: It's a recurring local favourite that might offer a cool, low-key atmosphere for older kids/parents looking for something beyond theme parks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What genuinely free kids events are on in Shenzhen this weekend?
The best genuinely free option this weekend (Jan 03-04) is the Futian Central Light Show (Event ID: shenzhen-3). It happens every night at 7, 8, and 9 PM in the Civic Center area—no ticket required to watch the dazzling lights.
Where can we go if the weather is terrible on Sunday?
For a rainy Sunday, check out the Li Keran's Paintings Exhibition (Extended) at the Shenzhen Art Museum (Event ID: shenzhen-4). It's a high-quality indoor cultural activity perfect for older kids and adults.
What's a fun, unique outdoor activity for the whole family on Saturday?
Head to 南头古城风筝展 (Nantou Ancient Town Kite Exhibition) (Event ID: shenzhen-1). They've decorated the ancient town with creative kites, making for a beautiful and unique family walk on Saturday, Jan 3rd.