First things first: As always, there are no fireworks on the Bund or anywhere else this year. New Year's Eve isn't a major event on the Chinese calendar, so you don't need to splash out for a Bund view or anything particularly flashy.
That said, every bar and club in town has something lined up for NYE. Below are five parties hosted by larger promoters that should draw solid crowds and have good music -- ideal options if you're looking to celebrate the countdown. These events do tend to sell out, so booking in advance is a smart move.
For a more extensive list of NYE events, check back on our events calendar.
The Shanghai EDITION
Where: The Shanghai EDITION -- Shanghai's trendy, design-forward hotel on Nanjing Lu.
Hosted By: MET
What to Expect: The EDITION has carved out its niche as a popular NYE party spot, hosting just about every promoter in town over the years. This time, expect multiple themed spaces: a Studio 54 room for vintage disco vibes, an Organic Stage with Afrobeat-inspired tunes, and a Future Rave Stage that promises a futuristic experience. Safe to say, it'll be a busy one.
The Deal: Free-flow spirits and drinks from 9pm - 4am. Pre-sale tickets are 488 RMB per person, or 728 RMB at the door.
Park Hyatt Shanghai
Where: Park Hyatt Shanghai -- on the 91st floor of the Shanghai World Financial Center.
Hosted By: Nova Events
What to Expect: Park Hyatt pairs its stellar views with a refined, upscale atmosphere-perfect for ringing in the New Year with a bit of class. Nova Events, the team behind this one, has a strong following, so expect a lively and crowded night. Definitely one to book early.
The Deal: Free-flow champagne from 11:30pm–12:30am, with other drinks and tapas/canapés flowing from 9pm–2am. Tickets start at 988 RMB per person.
The St. Regis On The Bund, Shanghai
Where: The St. Regis Shanghai on the Bund -- the city's latest luxury hotel where the Huangpu meets the Suzhou River.
Hosted By: FC Club
What to Expect: This one throws everything at the wall: a couture fashion show, a champagne sabering ritual, and something intriguingly billed as an "aroma ritual" by famed Aroma Jockey ODO7. For music, they've enlisted London-based Danny Wheeler (aka WheelUp) to host a "music ceremony." Whether it all comes together or not -- it certainly sounds like an interesting night.
The Deal: Free-flow drinks and upscale snacks (oysters, caviar, etc.) every hour from 8pm-2am, starting at 588 RMB per person. If you're hungry, upgrade to the dinner buffet at 999 RMB (6pm at The St. Regis Brasserie), which includes entry to the countdown party upstairs.
The Pearl
Where: The Pearl -- an atmospheric, historic theater in Hongkou.
Hosted By: The Pearl.
What to Expect: The Pearl does what it does best: jam-packed entertainment with live music and performances. For NYE, they're showcasing highlights from their year's lineup, so expect a full evening of non-stop shows. If Bund views don't matter, this might be your best bet for pure atmosphere. Bonus: The food is surprisingly good here, so arrive early for dinner and settle in for the countdown.
The Deal: Pre-sale tickets are 388 RMB per person, or 488 RMB at the door. Includes one glass of bubbles at midnight and all-night entertainment. Doors open at 6pm, performances start at 8pm.
Radisson New World
Where: 47th floor of the Radisson New World -- the UFO-shaped hotel at People's Square.
Hosted By: Unite.
What to Expect: A popular and well-established choice for NYE parties, this event fills up every year, sometimes before tickets even hit the listing sites. The crowd here skews younger and more local, and the combination of panoramic views and lively energy makes it a reliable option. There are two packages: one for the buffet dinner and another for the countdown party upstairs.
The Deal: Free-flow spirits, wine, beer, and soft drinks (no champagne) from 10:30pm-2am, starting at 468 RMB per person. Add a dinner buffet option for 698 RMB, including food from 9pm–11pm. Your Radisson wristband also gets you free entry into KEV Club or Charbon Rooftop after 2am.
***