Christmas markets: Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Beijing
Christmas in China isn’t just a borrowed tradition; it’s a vibrant example of globalization and cultural exchange. It’s true that the holiday hasn’t adopted the religious aspects found in European and American celebrations. However, in China, it transforms into a unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures. It’s a time when the streets of Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Beijing come alive in sparkling splendor, offering an incredible variety of ways to celebrate. Let’s visit each of the three cities—here’s an overview of the most exciting Christmas events.
Snow Festival at Disneyland
When: until February 24, 2024On Mickey Avenue, the main street, fairy tale characters go sledding and have snowball fights with visitors. The stars of the winter festival are, naturally, Elsa, Anna, and Olaf from Frozen. Alongside ice installations and magical projections, you’ll find local treats at every corner. And of course, Disneyland is the perfect spot for picking up Christmas gifts.
Where: Shanghai Disney Resort, 310 Huangzhao Rd, Chuansha New Town, Pudong New Area
Price: Check with concierges.
German Christmas Market
When: until December 24, Wed-Fri 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., Sat-Sun 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.The Bund promenade is worth visiting for gifts, German treats, and a festive atmosphere. In the square near the old cathedral, forty artisans present their products: handmade candles, cashmere items, Christmas ornaments, and jewelry. After your Christmas shopping, try Bavarian sausages from Zeitgeist, Chilean-style churrasco from La Picá Chilena, and Raclette cheese dishes from Royal Patat.
Where: Yuanmingyuan Rd, Beijing Rd E., The Bund
Price: ￥40
Leonyn's Medieval Christmas Fair
When: until December 24, Fri 5 p.m to 10 p.m., Sat-Sun 1 p.m. to 10 p.m.The name of the fair is inspired by an ancient myth about a magical elixir crafted in the French region of Bordeaux, with the recipe closely guarded by a select few. Each year, the festival brings the mystical Middle Ages to life: performers in traditional attire mingle with guests, captivating stories are told in English and Chinese for children, and a massive bouncy castle stands tall. Visitors can savor meaty delicacies and purchase unique souvenirs.
Location: MOHO Mall, 936 Shaanxi Rd N., Jing’an District
Price: ￥35
Christmas Market at K11 MUSEA
Dates: until January 1, 2024; December 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 22-31 from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m., December 8 and 15 from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.Every event at K11 is steeped in cultural or historical context. This year, the organizers drew inspiration from London’s Crystal Palace, which hosted the World’s Fair in 1851. The museum’s celebration will showcase contemporary Chinese and international artisans. Fifty brands will display their wares: jewelry, decorative items, healthy treats, and beverages. Visitors can also select a card with a festive stamp to send holiday greetings to loved ones.
Location: K11 MUSEA, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui District
Admission: Free, registration required
Hong Kong WinterFest
Dates: until January 1, 2024; check with concierges for operating hoursThe highlight of West Kowloon’s holiday decorations is a twenty-meter-tall Christmas tree in Art Park plaza. Visitors can meet Santa in his cozy cabin and snap photos with reindeer. Twenty-five stalls offer Christmas souvenirs, inventive street food, and drinks.
Location: The Great Lawn, Art Park, West Kowloon
Admission: Free
Christmas Eco-Market
Dates: until January 1, 2024, 11 a.m to 10 p.m.Festival Walk Shopping Center is hosting an eco-friendly gift fair to mark its 25th anniversary. Many brands showcase limited edition collections, jewelry crafted from recycled materials, and offer stained glass workshops. Explore the center to discover a glass house, wooden sculptures, and other installations made from environmentally-friendly materials.
Location: Festival Walk, 80 Tat Chee Ave, Kowloon Tong
Admission: Free, registration required
Christmas Market at Shenlu Garden
When: Fri, December 15, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Sat, December 16, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sun, December 17, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.Shenlu Garden is hosting its Christmas Market on December 15-17 and is welcoming vendors. Festivities will take place both indoors and outdoors. The market offers mulled wine, German sausages, Santa Claus, and of course, Christmas gifts.
Location: Shenlu Vineyard East Gate
Price: Check with concierges
Christmas Creators' Market
When: Wed, December 17, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Where: Beersmith, 1st floor of Jen Hotel, 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang DistrictThe Christmas Creators’ Market will take place on December 17, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. The market will feature only products made in China. So if you’re looking for authentic Chinese souvenirs, you’re sure to find something unique at the Creators’ Market.
Admission: Free
Burokiri Lifestyle Christmas Market
When: December 16-17, December 23-24, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.The vibrant Burokori Market, in collaboration with Beijing’s trendy Jinyue Ji City store, will host a cultural and interactive Christmas market at The Grand Summit. It’s reminiscent of flea markets found around the world, featuring great music, stylish items, and cheerful smiles from Chinese vendors. If you’re looking for colorful designer pieces, come to BUROKORI Lifestyle. What can it be compared to? It’s similar to the Lambada Market that has become so popular in Moscow.
Where: South Basement, The Grand Summit Liangmaqiao
Admission: Free
