Shanghai has maintained its status as the most developed city in China, a standing it has held since the 1930’s boom. And over the past two decades it has established itself as a top tourist destination, holding the annual Shanghai Tourism Festival, now approaching its 21st anniversary. The event, this year held between 10 September and 6 October, not only showcases the city’s various attractions, but opens its doors to a number of nations who also share their enchantments with the Chinese public.

This year’s festival kicks off on 10 September and will see crowds of spectators line the streets of Shanghai, starting from Huaihai Middle Road, moving through Tibet South Road, onto Shaanxi South Road, and beyond. What they will be observing is quite spectacular: a sea of festooned floats carrying acrobats and dancers with plenty of bands and live music. Last year, there were some truly magnificent floats, some shaped like dragons, while others sported floral formations, or were themed on Chinese fables. And you can expect to witness much more flamboyancy at this year’s event.

Finding something to engage your interest during the festival season won’t be difficult. There are countless events, performances, and workshops to observe, and take part in. Why not check out the gourmet festivals held at a variety of hotels in the city, where some of Shanghai’s most accomplished chefs will share their culinary secrets? Or sample the best in tea alongside traditional Chinese cuisine at the Daning International Commercial Plaza? Chinese customs will be reflected in the Shanghai Jiuzi folklore games contest, the Sunqiao harvest festival, and the mid-autumn park tour. And there will also be a number of carnivals to enjoy, like the Forest Carnival, and the Nanjing and Sichuan Road carnivals.

Shanghai’s spirit will be felt all over the city this autumn but there will also be plenty of entertainment from overseas. The Shanghai Yangtze Oktoberfest is a mix of the finest German ales and some of the best bands from Munich, while at Meilan Lake, music from all over the world can be heard every weekend throughout the fest that comes to a close on 6 October.

A rather interesting feature at the festival is the gathering of dozens of newlywed couples, adorned in Chinese matrimonial costume, afloat on ancient boats in the district of Fengjing. And for those inspired by Fengjing’s taste of past traditions, there is even a mass wedding ceremony that will see almost 100 couples tie the knot in a joint ceremony on 5 October at the Rose Wedding.

If you’re  staying in Shanghai’s city centre, you can choose from a selection of hotels, many of which have ample business facilities such as the  Days Hotel Tongji Shanghai, or the  Holiday Inn Express Wujiaochang Shanghai Hotel. In Shanghai’s northern district of Hongkou, check-in to the reasonably priced  White Mansion Hotel Shanghai. For accommodation near Hongqiao International Airport, the 5-star  Millennium Hongqiao Hotel has many onsite facilities like an indoor pool and a café. More  Shanghai Hotel Promotions can be found on our website.