Sometimes, there's nothing better than going home for Christmas to spend time with the family – continuing traditions, giving gifts, and indulging in a lot of turkey. But for those of us staying in Shanghai during the festive period, fret not, there are lots of things to do in the city that will bring the festive season to life. From making your winter wardrobe sparkle and finding the best stocking fillers for loved ones, to exploring the Christmas markets and indulging in good food, you won't be short of options to help you continue traditions or make new ones!
Kickstarting the festive fun, we visited Shanghai Disneyland Resort to see what they've made of their winter wonderland. For years, they have been championing the holiday season with an abundance of light displays, decorations and beautifully crafted details. We hopped on Line 11 to see what you can do with your little elves.
Disney makes for a magical experience no matter when you decide to go, but seeing the garlands, ornaments, Mickey Mouse-shaped wreaths and more strewn across the resort certainly gave the place a new lift. Decked in the season's traditional colors, you can walk towards the Enchanted Storybook Castle and gaze upon the 60ft Christmas tree. Every evening, at 5:30pm, Olaf from Frozen will accompany a signature tree lighting ceremony that will bring the tree to life with shimmering lights and a glistening star. Find a good spot for you and the family to watch as "When We're Together" fills you and the kids with heartwarming Disney magic!
If you and the family are craving a festive Christmas dinner, you can choose from a number of options throughout the resort. The Royal Banquet Hall will be serving up a brand new Christmas menu featuring seafood, beef, rich Christmas log cakes and more. Remy's Patisserie will house everything from fruit cakes and mince pies to a series of hot beverages and hot chocolate served in cute Mickey sleeves. If you're going to be visiting with your beau for a festive date night, Aurora Restaurant is the perfect place for a more formal and romantic Christmas dinner.
If the mood takes you, you can visit one of the many stores that will transform into Christmas gift shops filled with Disney goodies and collectibles – remote control BB8 anyone? – to take home and stick under the tree. Sweethearts Confectionary will also be selling exclusive sweet treats, like Christmas Minnie Candy Apples and white chocolates molded to the likeness of characters. These were a great pick-me-up while strolling through the park.
Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays will see Disneytown host a Christmas market featuring craft stations, food booths, and other holiday-themed activities. Decked out in decorations, you'll be feeling festive even before stepping into the park area. A quartet of carolers singing familiar Christmas tunes that you'll want to join in on, Saint Nick himself, and an abundance of photo opportunities that will give you memories to remember.
Of course, if you get bored of enjoying Christmas delights (though we're not sure anyone could), you've still got rides like Tron to soar through and Buzz Lightyear Planet Rescue to win.
For more information, visit shanghaidisneyresort.com.
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