What's On in Shanghai: December 2018

By Sarah Forman, November 30, 2018

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That's Shanghai takes a look at the best things to do in the month of December.


Dec 1: Math-Rock Meets Post-Rock

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Flyer courtesy of Borderless.

Live music from Little Wizard, Nerve Passenger, Foster Parents and Appendix - get ready for a whole lot of math rock.

Dec 1, 8pm, RMB100 pre sale, RMB120 door. Yuyintang, see event listing.


Dec 1: Music By Design

o_1csoa8dn618npm0i19rsb1m1dqr1v.jpgPhoto courtesy of 247tickets.

Music by design is bringing Chinese and Nordic artists to the stage in a collaborative project unlike anything they've put on before. Cha Cha, Jasmine Li and Dirty Fingers will play with Finnish singer-songwriter Ida Elina, Norwegian Bror Forsgren, Danish Farveblend and soul-singer Elias for a multi-national showcase that's promising to cover a lot of ground.

Dec 1, 8pm, RMB100 pre sale, RMB120 door. Yuyintang, see event listingbuy tickets.


Dec 1: Food & Firewater Pop-Up

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Flyer courtesy of Taste Collective.

Brought to you by the team behind Happy Ending (that bomb-ass donut pop-up a few months back), chef Simone Thompson is putting on a night of London town's favorite late-night pub foods. We're talkin' lamb curry buns, scotch eggs (EGG! like the location!), doner kebabs and so much more. Veg and vegan options will also be available.

Dec 1, 9pm, no cover. EGG, see event listing.


Dec 1: Italian Dance Wave Asia

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Flyer courtesy of Dada.

DJs Altieri, Velvet Robot and Illsee are bringing the Italian take on Chicago house, acid, slow disco and other contemporary genres at Dada this Saturday.

Dec 1, 9pm, no cover. Dada, see event listing.


Dec 1: The Mansion's 6th Birthday Party

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Flyer courtesy of The Mansion.

Come celebrate their not-so-little party playground's last birthday party. They'll have a whole lot of DJs and it's sure to be a big one.

Dec 1, 10pm, RMB100 includes five drinks before 1am and three afterwards. The Mansion, see event listing.


Dec 1: Cozyway

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Flyer courtesy of SHFT.

Did you know a new club opened up in United Valley? Well, they did, and it's called DASH, and hip hop is apparently their thing. We haven't been yet, but feel that's one thing this city could use more of so... here's hoping.

Dec 1, 11pm, RMB80. DASH, see event listing.


Until Dec 16: Jing'an Christkindlmarkt

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Flyer courtesy of the promoter.

The scent of baked apples, chestnuts and gingerbread with mulled wine, rum punch and all the wonderful sounds of the season await you at another Jing’an Christkindlmarkt. Bring your friends and family, as it’s time to be merry and immerse yourself in the festive spirit!

Until Dec 16, free on weekdays, RMB50 Sat-Sun. Zeitgeist, see event listing, buy tickets.


Dec 2: Glam's Monthly Vegan Brunch


Image courtesy M Glam 

Start your Sunday right and head to M Glam's monthly vegan brunch to enjoy healthy and delicious menu items you can't find anywhere else. 

Dec 2, noon-3pm. M Glam, see event listing


Dec 2: Samba Day

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Flyer courtesy of Barraco.

Eat, drink, but most importanly, dance your heart out this weekend at Barraco. They're celebrating National Samba Day with live music and feijoada from their new head chef, Victor Vieira, and it's gonna be delicious. And fun. And did we mention live samba players?

Dec 2, 1pm, no cover. Barraco, see event listing.


Dec 2: Pilipala Big Bird Grand Opening Party

Image courtesy Pilipala

Does cold weather have you down in the dumps? The way to happiness is through your stomach, so warm your tummy with a Yunnan turkey feast. The lemongrass infused turkey will be served with your favorite Yunnan granny mashed potatoes and grilled goat cheese. There's also free-flow mulled wine. 

Dec 2, 6-10pm, RMB188 per person. Pilipala Dai Barbecue, see event listing


Dec 2: Mary See The Future

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Photo courtesy of Facebook.

Influenced by British rock, this mando-pop band has been making music for over 10 years now. Having all grown up in Taipei, there's a soft romanticism to their indie sound, mixing hope, desperation and other opposing factors in their lyrics and vibe.

Dec 2, 8.30pm, RMB100 pre sale, RMB120 door. Mao Livehouse, see event listing.


Dec 3: Burger Night

Image courtesy Bird

The only thing better than burgers are burgers plus beer and Bird's got you covered in both departments. The return of their Monday Burger Night is completed by the launch of Jing A's Mandarin Wheat. This Belgian witbier pours sunny straw gold with an impressively fluffy head. As you take sip after smooth sip, you will appreciate the balance of sweetness mingled with bright mandarin orange and zesty coriander. Combo and a la carte options are available for takeaway or dining in, and there's even an option out there for our carniphobe friends.

Dec 3, 7pm-10.30pm. Bird, see event listing


Dec 6: Specters Night!

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Flyer courtesy of Specters.

You can’t kill what was always dead, which is why Specters has risen to the occasion and thrown together a DJ night at Yuyintang Park. Baron Van West, Compact Dicks, Tina Turntrick and more of the venue’s favorite disc jockeys will be manning the tables for a night of cheap drinks, old friends and good times. The foosball table is waiting for ya. No cover. 

Dec 6, 8pm, no cover. Yuyintang Park, see event listing


Dec 6: Franz Ferdinand

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Flyer courtesy of the promoter.

Franz Ferdinand are coming! The show is sold out though! Keep an eye on your group chats for late in the game backers out, because this Brit-pop band from Glasgow are sure to put on one hell of a show.

Dec 6, 9pm. Modern Sky Lab, see event listing.


Dec 7: Nulbarich

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Photo courtesy of the promoter.

A ray of sunshine, this J-Pop band will bring a smile to your face on even the coldest of days. In an unconventional twist, with a rotating band, lead singer Jeremy Quartz is the only fixed member. Many of them wear masks so you can focus solely on their sound, not their looks, picking up a range of influences from the likes of Jamiroquai to The Servant. 

Dec 7, 9pm, RMB200 pre sale, RMB280 door. Modern Sky Lab, see event listing, buy tickets.


Dec 7-8: The Grinch's Cabaret Soiree

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Photo courtesy of The Pearl.

The Grinch who stole Christmas is making a special appearance at The Pearl for one weekend only. Unlike the animated original, you can expect intense aerials, pyrotechnics and a little too much skin for December – looks like Cindy Lou Who’s all grown up.

Dec 7-8, 9pm, RMB180 pre sale, RMB220 door. The Pearl, see event listing, buy tickets.


Dec 7-9: BLN Christmas Market

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Photo courtesy of the promoter.

For the 12th year in a row, this German Christmas market is here to usher in good tidings and the holiday spirit. With 70 hand selected craft vendors, you’ll find everything you need to stuff your stockings or deck your home in boughs of holly. They’ll have German sausages and Glühwein at the ready, among other delicious dishes, so let the season begin.

Dec 7–9, 3pm-10pm, 11am-10pm and 11am-9pm, RMB30 for anyone 10 and older. Paulaner @EXPO, see event listing.


Dec 8: New York Swing Night

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Flyer courtesy of Jazz at Lincoln Center.

Swing your heart out like you're in the big apple, because Jazz at Lincoln Center is playing tribute to the greats. Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Ella Fitzgerald and Benny Goodman - all brought to you by the Bria Skonberg Quintet. Cover includes a softdrink and one Monkey47 cocktail.

Dec 8, 7pm, RMB298 includes one soft drink and one gin cocktail. Jazz at Lincoln Center, see event listing.


Dec 8: Boxing Cat 10th Anniversary

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Flyer courtesy of the promoter.

10 years of Boxing Cat! Wow! Can you believe it? We can, and are looking forward to celebrating it with them. They'll introduce a new porter, bring in some DJs, offering special prices on gift packs and a raffle for an all-expenses-paid trip to their brewery out it Wuhan.

Dec 8, 8.30pm, no cover. Boxing Cat Brewery (Sinan Mansions), see event listing.


Dec 8: ShanghaiLGBT Annual Drag Race & Party

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Photo courtesy of Shanghai Pride.

It's that time of year again - Shanghai's Annual Drag Race is back for another round of showstopping performances. And a party. Drag kings and queens, get ready to strut your stuff for three titles, and everybody else jump out for support. Free entry to those in drag before 11! Check out the event details on how to enter.

Dec 8, 9pm. Lucca, see event listing.


Dec 8: Blastfemme

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Flyer courtesy of Mao Livehouse.

This new female-fronted Brazillian disco punk band are plugging their way to Shanghai for a riot of a show. They’re still recording their first album in dialogue with the country’s turbulent political climate, cultivating a message that’s part of the fight for women’s rights. Alongside Dirty Fingers and Aleamazonia, they’ll even have an after party with Brazilian funk, samba and dance floor heat.

Dec 8, 9pm, RMB100 pre sale, RMB120 door. Mao Livehouse, see event listing, buy tickets


Dec 8: Ski Mask The Slump God

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Photo courtesy of 247tickets.

The XXL 2018 Freshman class member grew up listening to BUsta Rhymes, Misy Elliot, Wu Tang Clan and Lil Wayne is well known for his collaborations with XXXTentacion. His raps set to heavy bass are intense and angry, and tracks like ‘BUKAKKE’, ‘SUICIDE SEASON’ and ‘GEEKIN’ are featured on his most recent release.

Dec 8, 10pm, RMB320 in advance, RMB360 door. Arkham, see event listing, buy tickets.


Dec 8: Hologram Dreams

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Flyer courtesy of Dada.

Heatwolves is back for another round of Hologram Dreams. Seminal classics, brand new sounds and anime visuals make and a free night at Dada - drinks excluded, that is.

Dec 8, 10pm, no cover. Dada, see event listing.


Dec 9: DYN-O-MITE!

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Flyer courtesy of Ink Sight Group.

The Come Correct Crew presents DYN-O-MITE, a monthly night where the O.G.‘s get even more O.G. and bring the Funk, soul, disco, rare groove, and blaxploitation-era classics for a big Sunday evening. This month they're at Shanghai's house of funk and soul, SHAKE, with music by DJ Caution, T-Plus, Carlos, and Allay. 60rmb highball special all night, sponsored by Our/New York Vodka, Peddler's Gin and Capi.

Dec 9, 8pm, no cover. SHAKE, see event listing.


Dec 12: SAFIA

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Flyer courtesy of 247tickets.

This Aussie indie-electro band takes influence from a range the likes of James Blake to Major Lazer. Having taken the stage at this year's Congrete and Grass, they're back again for another round and a full on China tour.

Dec 12, 8.30pm, RMB160 pre sale, RMB200 door. Mao Livehouse, see event listing, buy tickets.


Dec 13: Unravel: Deck The Halls

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Flyer courtesy of Unravel.

Storytelling platform Unravel is back for a holiday edition - this time two weeks early! Get in the mood to Deck The Halls with stories of family, seasonal cheer and mistletoe mishaps.  Part live show, part PARTY, they’re taking the opportunity to celebrate another year with the whole Unravel community. 

Dec 13, 7.30pm, RMB50 pre sale, RMB60 door includes one drink. That's Territory, see event listing.


Dec 13-16: Tap Dogs

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Photo courtesy of the promoters.

Blending live music and tap dancing as you've never seen before, the stage show has been a hit ever since its debut 23 years ago. Created by award-winning dancer and choreographer Dein Perry, Tap Dogs has taken the world by storm with its display of strength and precision in tap dancing. What are you waiting for? The show will run for a limited time, so book your tickets for this tap dance phenomenon now. 

Dec 13-16, 3.30pm and 7.30pm, RMB180-680. ET Space, see event listing, buy tickets.


Dec 14: Pankaj Udhas

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Photo courtesy of the promoter.

This Gujarat-born maestro has crooned soulful numbers for countless Indian films for almost 40 years. The proud recipient of the famous Padma Shri, India's fourth highest civilian award, Udhas released his first solo album in 1980 and the rest, as this say, is musical history. Come catch him on his first ever China tour in a budget hotel out in Pudong - should be interesting to say the least. For more, check out our interview with him here.

Dec 14, 8pm, RMB200-800. Vienna International Hotel, see event listing.


Dec 14: Elephant Gym

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Photo courtesy of Spotify.

Taiwanese trio Elephant Gym mix jazz, disco, alternative and indie to bring a laid back coastal city sound to life. The "Elephant" in their name is meant to symbolize the steadfast nature of bass in their songs, while the "Gym" refers to the ever-moving, acrobatic musical counterparts of guitar, vocals and percussion. 

Dec 14, 8.30pm, RMB120 pre sale, RMB150 door. Mao Livehouse, see event listing.


Dec 15: Humbert Humbert

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Photo courtesy of the promoter.

The Japanese folk-duo are about as cute as they come. Backed by strings a plenty, their voices complement each other in a soft-spoken and playful banter that leaves you feeling like they’ve known each other for years.

Dec 15, 8pm, RMB280. Bandai Namco Shanghai Base, see event listing.


Dec 20: Chicago the Musical

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Flyer courtesy of 247tickets.

"Murder, greed, corruption, exploitation, adultery and treachery…all those things we hold near and dear to our hearts”…so begins the international award-winning musical, CHICAGO is coming. With 6 Tony, 2 Olivier, 1 Grammy, 2 Bafta and 6 Academy Awards, Chicago truly is “The sharpest, slickest show on the block". It's the show you can always count on to give you the thrills and memories that only come from seeing a Broadway musical.

Dec 20 - Jan 13, 2pm and 7.30pm, RMB280-1,080. Majestic Theatre, see event listing, buy tickets.


Dec 21: China Social Club - The Bad Seed

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Flyer courtesy of the promoter.

China Social Club is warming up the winter months with nitty-gritty electronica and basslines. Inspired by the 1954 novel of the same name - featuring an evil young girl with sinister motives - CSC invites you to forget your humility and let out your own bad seed. DJs Illsee, HYMN and Frau will be providing literary like twists and turns with house, acid, techno, EBM, ghetto, two-step and jungle rhythms on this genre unrestricted jaunt.  

Dec 21, 9pm, no cover. Dada, see event listing.


Dec 28: Barbarism Vol. 11

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Flyer courtesy of Ink Sight Group.

The monthly club night for civilized barbarians. BARBARISM is an escape for those who work hard all week and need to experience rawness and real feelings. Expect dancefloor-filling and boundary-pushing pop and hip hop, forgotten classics, familiar vocals in strange new contexts, and songs you never knew you needed. Starts 10pm. Not suitable for viewers under 18. RSVP and table booking recommended.

Dec 28, 10pm, no cover. Le Baron, see event listing.


Dec 29: Haggard

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Photo courtesy of Facebook.

This German symphonic metal music group has been playing together for nearly 40 years. (Think Lord of the Rings meets Rammstein.) The 18 members will be rockin’ at Bandai Namco at the end of this month in the most hardcore take on the Christmas spirit.
Dec 29, 10pm, RMB480. Bandai Namco Shanghai Base, see event listing.


Dec 29 - Jan 1: Gone With The Wind

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Photo courtesy of 247tickets.

You may have seen the movie version of it over and over again, but have you ever seen the musical version of Gone with the Wind? Also based upon the best-selling novels of all time, the musical features French musical master Gerard Presgurvic as composer and talented Rachel Gold, who also played the leading lady in the musical Phantom of the Opera, as Scarlett O'Hara. Telling a heart-wrenching romantic epic, in which a girl who never surrenders to life grows to be a woman. this is a masterpiece you shall not miss.

Dec 28 - Jan1, 2pm and 7.30pm, RMB80-1,080. Shanghai Culture Square, see event listing, buy tickets.


Dec 31: Samba New Year

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Photo courtesy of MVP Events.

Celebrate New Years Eve samba style at one of the most famous hotels on The Bund. There will be performances, unlimited canapés and free entry to Bar Rouge after 1.30am (among many other things).

Dec 31, 9pm, RMB888-1,288. Sir Elly's, The Peninsula Shanghai, see event listing.


Dec 31: New Year's Eve at the McKinnon

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Photo courtesy of the McKinnon.

The McKinnon hotel flings open its doors once again, inviting you to ring in the New Year with their oh-so-glamorous residents. Will it be a masquerade? A cabaret? A grand, celestial ball? Only time will tell, but there’s sure to be a party and plenty to drink, carrying you straight through to 2019 in style, and we’ll raise a glass to that. Check back for ticketing links and prices.

Dec 31, 9.30pm, TBA. McKinnon Hotel, see event listing.


Dec 31: NYE at POP!

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Flyer courtesy of POP American Brasserie.

If you fancy spending your New Year's Eve on the Bund, then head to POP for a night of free-flow. If you book dinner beforehand at anywhere in Three on the Bund or just purchase your ticket in advance, you get a special RMB100 off the door.

Dec 31, 10pm, RMB488 pre sale, RMB588 door. POP American Brasserie, see event listing.


For more things to do in Shanghai, check out our Events Section.

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