As night falls, Shanghai transforms into a bustling hub of cultural events, exhibitions and markets. After a long day of work, why not unwind and have fun in the city at night? So, read our guide to enjoy the best nightlife in Shanghai.

15th ACT Shanghai Contemporary Theater Festival

When: Sept 6 - Oct 13

Where: Shanghai Dramatic Arts Centre, No 288 Anfu Road, Xuhui district

The 15th ACT Shanghai Contemporary Theater Festival, as its theme "Fields of Memory", features nine domestic and international art performances – spanning genres such as drama, mime, experimental performances and dance theatre. Many of these works are new creations from internationally renowned troupes, making their debuts in China and Asia.

Haipai Mid-Autumn Festival Lantern Fair

When: 10 am - 10 pm, Sept 2 – Oct 20

Where: The Inlet, Hongkou district

The Inlet will be illuminated by colorful festive lanterns with artistic inspiration for the third consecutive year – transforming this century-old alley into a romantic venue for an east-west dialogue and making it a must-see attraction for visitors.

"Go Out! Suhewan" Riverside Sports Season

When: To Sept 21

Where: the neighborhoods around Suhewan area

The Suhewan area running guidebook has been released, featuring two routes that cover attractions such as the Shanghai Postal Museum and the Tianhou Palace. Visitors can also enjoy cycling, night running and highway cycling.

Feng Sheng Season

When: Sept 14-17

Where: Feng Sheng Li, Wujiang Road Leisure Street, the Square of Jing'an Temple

As a curtain-raiser for Shanghai's inaugural International Light Festival, the event – themed "For Share For Sure" – aims to connect West Nanjing Road business district and the Jing'an Temple shopping district through various activities.

Visitors can enjoy markets, art exhibitions, pop-up events, community interactions, workshops and musical performances.

Pudong Weifang Beer Festival

When: Sept 20 - Oct 26

Where: Holiday Inn Shanghai Pudong, 96 Shopping Plaza, Century Link, CR Land Times Square and other business districts

The Pudong Weifang Beer Festival, with its theme "Happy Hour", will combine resources from hotels and business districts, boosting the night economy. The festival offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in glorious beer culture while enjoying exclusive benefits. A German enterprise salon will be held to get more German enterprises to establish themselves in the Pudong New Area.

Tank Art Festival

When: Sept 14-17

Where: Tank Shanghai

The festival envisions a dystopian future where human beings struggle to survive due to political conflicts and climate change. Visitors can enter a secure underground space, featuring a circular LED screen that displays virtual weather changes synchronized to live music. This immersive scenario enables visitors to explore future lifestyles and values, encouraging reflection on their current way of life.

Knowledge and Innovation Community restaurant

When: To Sept 30

Where: Knowledge and Innovation Community

Indulge in an autumnal feast of Japanese skewered chicken, desserts and refreshing drinks and enjoy live music at the restaurant. These delectable treats offer a retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city and heal your mind.

Mystery play Deep in the Heart

When: 7:30 pm, Sept 27-28, Sept 30 - Oct 6; 2 pm, Oct 7

Where: Shanghai Dramatic Arts Centre, No 288 Anfu Road, Xuhui district

The mystery play Deep in the Heart, adapted from a film of the same name, centers on the discovery of an unidentified charred body in a rural village. Produced by the Shanghai Dramatic Arts Centre, the play is directed by He Nian, a first-class national director.

Phantom of the Opera

When: To Oct 13

Where: Shanghai Grand Theatre, No 300 Renmin Avenue, Huangpu district

Get ready to immerse yourself in musical enchantment after the Phantom of the Opera kicked off its six-week performance schedule in Shanghai. Don't miss the captivating musical at the Shanghai Grand Theatre.

Black Myth: Wukong symphony concert

When: 2:30 pm and 7:10 pm, Sept 22

Where: The North Bund AIA Grand Theatre, No 889 Dongdaming Road, Hongkou district

The Chinese-made blockbuster video game Black Myth: Wukong has captured the hearts of gamers worldwide. The concert features a selection of music from the game – blending symphonic and traditional Chinese music to create an unprecedented epic adventure. Animated shorts from the game will transport attendees back to the fantastical world of oriental mythology.