This article originally appeared on our sister website, Urban Family Shanghai.

By Urban Family & That's Editors

Feeling overwhelmed by Christmas? Fret not, for we are presenting you with the ultimate guide to celebrating the festive season in Shanghai! From lush dinners to goofy jumper parties, here's a list of all the goodness to look forward to in the coming weeks.

Afternoon Tea

Andaz Shanghai Xintiandi

Image via Andaz Xintiandi Shanghai

This trendy hotel bang in the middle of Xintiandi will be serving delectable three-tier afternoon tea sets through the season. Think a photogenic range of bauble-shaped cakes, pastries and savory bites paired with complimentary glasses of Perrier-Jouët Champagne.

Dec 19-25, 1-5.30pm. RMB588 for two. All prices subject to 15 percent surcharge. Andaz Xintiandi Shanghai. See event listing. 

Aura Lounge & Jazz Bar

Relax amidst festive ambience whilst sipping Aura's special holiday mocktail and hot chocolate drink. Afternoon tea at Aura Lounge is packed with Christmas delicacies and traditional treats created by Executive Pastry Chef, Jean-Luc Vasseur – a culinary experience which will surely be elevated by soothing jazz tunes.

Dec 14-Jan 31. RMB628 for two. Aura Lounge & Jazz Bar. See event listing.

Four Seasons Hotel Pudong, Shanghai

Enjoy the warm environment of Camelia with a Christmas-themed afternoon tea. This offer for two includes unique festive pastries and sweets, a selection of hot chocolate and winter teas, as well as Christmas cocktails and Prosecco.

Dec 1-31. RMB528 for two. All prices subject to 15 percent service charge. Camelia, Four Season Hotel Pudong, Shanghai. See event listing. 

Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai

Image via Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai

The chefs at Kempinski are plating up a delightful mix of Chinese and Western treats for afternoon tea. From date and chestnut cream cake to spicy snails, there is plenty to relish at their Lobby Lounge this winter.

Nov 30–Dec 31. RMB268 for two weekdays, RMB198 for two weekends (limited offer). All prices subject to 16.6 percent surcharge. Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai. See event listing. 

The Peninsula Shanghai

The Lobby at the Peninsula Hotel will put a delicious festive spin on its acclaimed afternoon tea service throughout the festive period, offering a delightful range of Christmas pastries and festive light bites. Expect classic English scones, citrusy panna cotta, savory bites with smoked salmon, lobster rillette, Christmas ham and more. Pair these with a selection of Champagne, coffee or fair-trade tea for a perfectly soothing experience. 

Meanwhile, Sir Elly's is hosting kid-friendly afternoon tea parties throughout the month. Junior diners can indulge in a buffet-style ice cream and cotton candy station, complemented by storytelling, crafts and cooking workshops. Not to mention Santa himself will also grace the event!

Until Jan 1. RMB 388 for one, RMB 728 for two; add RMB548-988 for Champagne. All prices subject to 16.6 percent surcharge. The Peninsula Shanghai. See event listings for The Lobby and Sir Elly's. 

The St Regis Shanghai Jing’an

Image via The St Regis Shanghai Jing’an

Time for Tea remains a quintessential St. Regis tradition, and The Drawing Room is a perfect place to rendezvous for a casual yet classy afternoon tea. Enjoy a festive gathering afternoon with exquisite selection of Christmas treats and a stunning array of sweet delights,  complemented with a pot of fine tea or a freshly brewed hot gourmet coffee that completes the perfect afternoon. Add RMB120 for two glasses of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Champagne.

December 5-31, 2.30-5.30pm. RMB588 for two. The St Regis Shanghai Jing’an. See event listing.

Hampers

Capella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li

Image via Capella Jian Ye Li

la Boulangerie at Capella Jian Ye Li is the place to go for a comprehensive array of seasonal hampers. Each hamper is stuffed with treats such as Perrier Joët Brut, “FAÇON” perfume, truffle foie gras, gingerbread cookies, chocolate truffle and etc., which make the perfect gifts for any food-loving family.

Order by Dec 25. RMB2,888. Capella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li. See event listing. 

Hyatt on the Bund

Image via Hyatt on the Bund

Enjoy the sweet smell of Hyatt on the Bund with their finest selection of festive goodies. The takeaway basket includes seasonal favorites like traditional yule log. Chocolate lovers and aficionados can indulge in delights such as Santa- or snowman-shaped praline and truffles. Most importantly, five percent of the proceeds will be donated to the World of Art Brut Culture (WABC) organization in order to support artistic talents with special needs.

Until Dec 25. From RMB328. Hyatt on the Bund. See event listing.

Hyatt Regency Shanghai, Wujiaochang

Festively adorned with pine trees and wreaths, Hyatt Regency Wujiaochang has in addition prepared Christmas hampers for you to share the joy of the season with loved ones. Items included are house wine, Christmas Stollen, and of course, a gingerbread house.

RMB688 net. Hyatt Regency Shanghai, Wujiaochang. See event listing.

The St Regis Shanghai Jing’an

Image via The St Regis Shanghai Jing’an

St Regis’ festive hamper is laden with various festive sweets including panettone, Stollen, Jelly Bean candy, homemade Christmas cookies, Chocolate Santa and house wine, making it the perfect gift for your family and friends.

December 5-31, 8am-7pm. RMB888-RMB1,588. The St Regis Shanghai Jing’an. See event listing.

Festive Feasts

Al’s Diner

Al’s Diner is all about seasonal classics. The no-fuss Christmas Plate encompasses everything from herb-roasted turkey slices with gravy, Al’s mom’s cranberry sauce, chestnut stuffing, potato gratin, sweet potatoes a go-go, creamy green beans, roasted Brussel sprouts to a decadent slice of apple pie. Add RMB35 for a glass of body-warming mulled wine or eggnog milkshake.

Dec 24-25. RMB168. Al’s Diner (Xiangyang Lu & Xinle Lu). See event listing.

Ambrosia Teppanyaki @Expo

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience in a relaxed atmosphere with fantastic views of Shanghai skylines at Ambrosia Teppanyaki @Expo. Experience the special 10-course Christmas set menu consisting of baked French escargot, lobster seafood soup, bread topped with caviar, teppan abalone with chopped garlic and Australian Wagyu tenderloin and ribeye. Fabulous prizes are also waiting in the Christmas lucky draw! 

Dec 10-21, Dec 22-25, Dec 29-31, 5.30pm onwards. RMB588-650 and 10.6 percent surcharge. Ambrosia Teppanyaki @Expo. See event listing. 

Azul Tapas Lounge

Azul is serving a Christmas dinner set for two to share. There are four starters to share, including Pan de Jamon, Roast Beef Tapa, Scallops Wonton, and Ecuadorian Prawn Ceviche. Mains include braised cod fish, sous vide octopus and chorizo skewer, and a filet mignon with sweet potato. Desserts include a pannetone, chocolate cake, and a strawberry Santa. 

Dec 22-25. RMB488. Azul Tapas Lounge. See event listing.

Banyan Tree Shanghai on the Bund

Image via Banyan Tree Shanghai on the Bund

The tables will be set at OCEANS and TOP restaurants on Christmas Eve. Expect a fully-fledged buffet, a gourmet dinner or a couples package which includes a night's stay. 

Dec 24, 6.30-9pm. RMB1,688-16,888. Banyan Tree Shanghai on the Bund. See event listing.

The Bull & Claw

Celebrate Christmas with festive starters that includes foie gras, oven baked crab cakes and shrimp cocktail. There will be mains like venison medallions, wagyu sirloin, traditional roast turkey and salmon Wellington along with traditional Christmas pudding, winterberry panna cotta, cheese and biscuits. 

Dec 25. RMB550 per adult, RMB225 per child. The Bull & Claw. See event listing. 

Colca

Colca is serving a Christmas set menu from December 22 to 25. The set menu includes two amuse bouches, two starters of oysters and warm asparagus with egg, mains of cod fish and lamb shoulder, and desserts of Christmas chocolate log and Peruvian specialty suspiro limeno. 

Dec 22-25. RMB298. Colca. See event listing.

The CUT Rooftop

Image via VOL Group

THE CUT Rooftop – IAPM’s naturally cool, drink, dance and dine venue, is taking the opportunity to celebrate Christmas with roasts and winter warmer cocktails! The Festive edition of #MYBRUNCH will be plate up roasted classics such as corn-fed chicken leg, lamb gigot and tenderloin served with roasted veggies and gravy. Festive free-flow will include warm winter cocktails, such as the delightful mint cocoa cocktail made of Baileys and crème de white cocoa mint liqueur.

Dec 1-30, weekends only. THE CUT Rooftop. See event listing. 

Da Ivo

This Italian restaurant situated within Les Suites Orients hotel on the Bund will dish up seasonal staples such as roasted turkey paired with exceptional French Champagne. Be sure to book your turkey feast here at least five days in advance.

Dec 22-24. RMB1,088-1,288, all prices subject to 10 percent surcharge. Da Ivo. See event listing.

El Luchador

Indulge your wild side with a spicy Mexican-style Christmas feast at El Luchador Xintiandi. Expect four courses of the freshest seafood and Black Angus steak with sweet liquid chocolate cake, all with a Mexican twist. Doesn't that sound ideal for a festive get-together? Just add tequila and margaritas for something truly special. Bookings are essential, so act fast.

Dec 25. RMB888 for two. El Luchador. See event listing.

el Willy

Step away from the turkey and have a Feliz Navidad at el Willy where the masters of modern Spanish cuisine have put together your choice of two lavish holiday meals. Dishes include David Hervé oysters with Champagne foam, a traditional Catalan Christmas broth with meatballs and Australian striploin steak with baby potatoes and chimichurri.

Dec 24-25, RMB588-888 per person. el Willy. See event listing.

Fish+

Image via Fish+

Shanghai’s new British culinary endeavor Fish+ will be serving a hearty Christmas menu inspired by the island nation’s finest produce. Start with a Welsh rarebit topped with apple pine wood smoked bacon, before grounding down festive fish n’ chips with spiced mushy pea and cranberry tartar sauce. The finale will be a decadent slab of Scottish deep-fried Mars bar served with ice cream. Tempted? We certainly are!

Dec 7-25, Tue-Sun, midday-9pm. RMB198. Fish+. See event listing. 

Geneva

Enjoy a three-course Christmas meal at Geneva. Select from their generous menu offering a choice of Australian venison stew, grilled Icelandic cod fish or grilled New Zealand rib eye steak to pair with delicious starter and dessert. 

Dec 24-25. RMB198. Geneva. See event listing.

Green & Safe

Choose Green & Safe for your holiday feast that includes high-quality organic produce. They have different deals at each of their locations. Expect fantastic salads, comforting pizza or pasta dishes and meat or seafood platters for a filling holiday treat. Follow the event listings for further details.

Dec 7-25. RMB299-588. Green & Safe. See event listings. 

HEAT French Rotisserie Bistro

Choose from HEAT's special seasonal menus. Whether it's stuffed chicken, mulled wine or an 'eight treasures chicken' inspired by local Chinese cuisine, you can count on HEAT to serve up an indulgent fare.

Dec 24-31. RMB298-688. HEAT French Rotisserie Bistro. See event listing.

Hyatt on the Bund 

Christmas is in the air, so the merry Hyatt on the Bund team has been busy preparing a variety of scrumptious holiday meals for you and your loved ones. Choose from an inviting Chinese Christmas at Xindalu-China Kitchen, traditional handmade dim sum at VUE Dining, a splendid European Christmas at VUE Restaurant or an international Christmas Eve buffet at Aroma. Free-flow drink options vary depending on the restaurant.

Dec 24. RMB398-988. Hyatt on the Bund. 

Lil' Laundry

Can’t wait for Christmas to have a Christmas dish? Don’t worry! Lil’ Laundry will be serving the “Pink Christmas” ham steak and eggs as part of their Christmas brunch special menu. Christmassy cocktails will be available, too. As for dinner, expect a three-course meal paired with Christmassy cocktails.

Dec 22-25. RMB248 dinner. Lil' Laundry. See event listings.

Maison Papillon

In the spirit to entertain, Maison Papillon has prepared a merry Christmas spread including roasted turkey, chestnut soup, homemade cavatelli, roasted rib eye caving with truffle mashed potato and much more.

Dec 23-25, 5.30-9.30pm. RMB888. Maison Papillon. See event listing.

Mia Fringe

Mia Fringe welcomes you to sample a festive menu. Starting with a fresh seafood platter and seasonal chestnut soup, the meal is followed by a choice between fed flank M9 steak or roasted snapper as a main course. Finish with chocolate garnished spongecake and a selection of festive sweets.

Dec 20-31. RMB988 for two. Mia Fringe. See event listing.  

The Middle House

Swing by The Middle House Hotel for a range of unique Christmas meals. Chef Peter Lin at Café Gray Deluxe showcases a variety of dishes including beef Wellington with truffle foie gras sauce and steamed toothfish. At Sui Tang Li, a Chinese Christmas spread including double-boiled fish maw soup with quinoa and wok-fried Australian grain-fed beef will take center stage. Also joining the culinary parade is Frasca, who offers a seasonal menu including lobster linguine and the unmistakably Italian Christmas treat, panettone.

Dec 5-30. The Middle House. 

Mr & Mrs Bund

This winter season, indulge yourself in Mr & Mrs Bund's tempting offerings which include duck foie gras terrine natural, meuniere truffle bread, Iberico de Bellota 5J Spanish cured ham and Boston lobster in ‘citrus jar.’

Dec 1-31. RMB888-2,088 per guest, minimum of two guests. All prices are subject to 10 percent surcharge. Mr & Mrs Bund. See event listing. 

Opposite by Jenson & Hu

Opposite's Christmas tasting menu will feature a delectable range of surf and turf, from grilled Boston lobster to Australian M9 Wagyu strip steak.

Dec 23-25, 5.30-10pm. RMB1,088, all prices subject to 10 percent surcharge. Opposite by Jenson & Hu. See event listing.

Oxalis

The Waterhouse’s gourmet restaurant will be serving a seven-course special dinner in celebration of Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Included in the set are smoked salmon rillettes on crispy rye bread, pan seared duck foie gras, New Zealand venison shoulder stewed in red wine and more. 

Dec 22-25, midday-3pm. RMB198 plus 10 percent surcharge. Oxalis. See event listing. 

The Peninsula Shanghai

Image via The Peninsula Shanghai

They take Christmas very seriously at The Peninsula, and this year, they’ve drawn inspiration from around the globe to bring the festive season to life with their ‘Stories from the Tree’ theme. The main events, from seasonal afternoon teas, dinners and Champagne brunches will take place at The Lobby and Michelin one-starred Sir Elly’s, but don’t forget to stop by The Peninsula Boutique for a gourmet hamper, and duck into The Compass Bar for a Christmas-inspired nightcap. 

Nov 24-Dec 25. RMB388-2,888 per person. All prices subject to 16.6 percent surcharge. The Peninsula. See event listing. 

Pie Society

So you’ll be relieved to hear that Pie Society are ready to take your bookings from Dec 8 onwards. Whether you want to book a table at their flagship restaurant for a full-on pie feast; or you’d like them to come and cater for your office party, they’ve got Christmas covered. Their much-loved Christmas specials include delicious festive sides, puddings and drinks.

Dec 8-31. RMB108-158 per person. Pie Society. See event listing.

Puben by Jereme Leung

Braced by breathtaking views of the Bund and Lujiazui, Puben by Jereme Leung will serve a traditional Chinese-inspired meal this Christmas season. Think body-warming matsutake chicken soup and whole steamed fish to symbolize togetherness as you reunite with family and friends.

Dec 12-31. RMB400-900 per person. Puben by Jereme Leung. See event listing. 

The PuLi Hotel and Spa

If you’d like a lighter choice for Christmas lunch, The PuLi has you covered with an elegant three-course meal. It begins with your choice of foie gras or cold smoked salmon before moving onto to mains: a roast and confit goose plate with onions, Brussels sprouts and parsnip. We are most excited about the traditional bûche de Noël served for dessert Christmas Eve. 

Dec 24-25. RMB298-918, plus 10 percent surcharge and VAT. The PuLi Hotel and Spa. See event listing. 

The Shanghai EDITION

Prepare to go full throttle at the Shanghai EDITION this Christmas season. Start with a two- or three-course brunch, chill over festive cocktails, before arriving at the grand Christmas sharing dinner packed with surprises. If that's not enough, a Christmas theme party will be hosted at Electric Circus for those who wish to dance the night away.

Dec 20-30 cocktails, Dec 21-22 Christmas party, Dec 22-25 brunch, Dec 24-25 dinner. RMB258-788. The Shanghai EDITION. See event listing.

Shanghai Slims

Celebrate Christmas over a family-style feast at Shanghai Slims. Turkey, mac n' cheese, ham and candied yam will all be assembled for your indulgence. Not to mention you can top the experience with two hours of free-flow drinks including Californian wine, beer and sodas.

Dec 21-25, 11am-1.30pm, 5-7pm, 8-10pm. RMB378, add RMB158 free flow. Shanghai Slims. See event listing.

Tacolicious

What says Christmas festivities better than tacos? Enjoy a Christmas-inspired two set tacos with traditional eggnog for RMB105. Bring your friends and have a sing-along with the Christmas playlist. 

Dec 18-26. Tacolicious. RMB105. See event listing.

Taste & See Melbournian Bistro

Attend Carols by Candlelight at Taste & See Melbournian Bistro for a musical banquet. Upon their Christmas buffet table will be dishes ranging from Norwegian smoked salmon and flying fish roe bruschetta to slow roast garden courgette with tomato coulis and aioli. From the mains, choose roast Christmas turkey, Australian black Angus roast beef, pan roasted Icelandic halibut fish or truffle mushroom risotto. Savor the feeling of Christmas while accompanied by beautiful carols. 

Dec 1, 5, 8, 12, 15, 19, 6.30pm onwards; carols at 8pm. RMB280 per person. Taste & See. See event listing.

Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund

At the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund, you can marvel at the return of their Christmas wonderland, featuring the celebrated two-story Waldorf Astoria Heritage Christmas Tree. There will also be seasonal decorations and a range of Christmas menus and other treats at both Pelham’s, the Black Pearl restaurant and the Grand Brasserie. 

Dec 1-31. RMB688-988 per adult, RMB388 per child. Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund. See event listing.

The Westin Bund Center Shanghai

Image via The Westin Bund Center Shanghai

An extravagant brunch at The Westin Bund Center Shanghai is a holiday tradition here. Of course, there will be a range of sumptuous holiday dishes and plenty of Veuve Clicquot Champagne, as well as live entertainment for the whole family to enjoy.

Dec 23-25. RMB688-998 adult, RMB 308-368 per child under 12 years. Free for kids under 4 years. The Westin Bund Center Shanghai. See event listing.

Zeitgeist Bavarian Eatery & Bar

Celebrate the winter season like a Bavarian over a festive stuffed Christmas goose. This holiday staple is served with Brussels sprouts flan, almond broccoli, spiced red cabbage, celery mashed potatoes and napkin dumplings as part of a three-course menu that also includes a soup and dessert. The only catch is that you need to order a day in advance and bring at least three friends.

Nov 30-Dec 31. RMB328. Zeitgeist Bavarian Eatery & Bar. See event listing. 

Last-Minute Hampers

Capella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li

Image via Capella Jian Ye Li

la Boulangerie at Capella Jian Ye Li is the place to go for a comprehensive array of seasonal hampers. Each hamper is stuffed with treats such as Perrier Joët Brut, “FAÇON” perfume, truffle foie gras, gingerbread cookies, chocolate truffle and etc., which make the perfect gifts for any food-loving family.

Order by Dec 25. RMB2,888. Capella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li. See event listing. 

Hyatt on the Bund

Image via Hyatt on the Bund

Enjoy the sweet smell of Hyatt on the Bund with their finest selection of festive goodies. The takeaway basket includes seasonal favorites like traditional yule log. Chocolate lovers and aficionados can indulge in delights such as Santa- or snowman-shaped praline and truffles. Most importantly, five percent of the proceeds will be donated to the World of Art Brut Culture (WABC) organization in order to support artistic talents with special needs.

Until Dec 25. From RMB328. Hyatt on the Bund. See event listing.

Hyatt Regency Shanghai, Wujiaochang

Festively adorned with pine trees and wreaths, Hyatt Regency Wujiaochang has in addition prepared Christmas hampers for you to share the joy of the season with loved ones. Items included are house wine, Christmas Stollen, and of course, a gingerbread house.

RMB688 net. Hyatt Regency Shanghai, Wujiaochang. See event listing.

The St Regis Shanghai Jing’an

Image via The St Regis Shanghai Jing’an

St Regis’ festive hamper is laden with various festive sweets including panettone, Stollen, Jelly Bean candy, homemade Christmas cookies, Chocolate Santa and house wine, making it the perfect gift for your family and friends.

December 5-31, 8am-7pm. RMB888-RMB1,588. The St Regis Shanghai Jing’an. See event listing.

Parties

Boxing Cat Brewery

This year, Boxing Cat will be holding the Ugly Beautiful Christmas Party on Decb22 from 7pm till late. At RMB188 per person, you can enjoy the wonderful Christmas buffet dinner including free flow mulled wine and house beers! Don’t forget to wear your favorite ugly sweater to get RMB50 off. Oh! One more thing: please share the warmth by donating used clothing, blankets, coats, winter shoes, pants, etc. It’s time to give something back to the communities! 

RMB188, 7pm-late. Boxing Cat Brewery. See event listing.

CAZA

CAZA wants you to wear your ugliest sweater to their Christmas party on Saturday, Dec 22. Let's celebrate Christmas with joy and laughter. Beer pong, a live DJ set all night and award ceremony will be in stock for the ugly sweater winner!

Dec 22, 10pm-late. CAZA. See event listing.  

Logan's Punch

Wear your absolute ugliest Christmas outfit to Logan's Punch for a chance to win a medium peach punch or, even better, an entire bottle of Jameson Whiskey!

Dec 19. Logan's Punch. See event listing. 

M1NT Shanghai

On Saturday, Dec 22, M1NT cordially invites you to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year together. For this special occasion, gather your friends there for some festive cheer!

Dec 22, 9.30pm. M1NT Shanghai. See event listing.

[Cover illustration by Mandy Tie for Urban Family; source image via Pexels]

Find a comprehensive guide to buying last-minute Christmas decorations in Shanghai here.

Find a list of useful phrases for the Christmas season here.

Find a list of church services here.

This article was originally published by our sister magazine Urban Family Shanghai. For more articles like this, visit the Urban Family website, or follow the Urban Family WeChat account (ID: urbanfamilyshanghai).