Copy Editor's Note: Okay, folks, this guide is pretty important because, in addition to tons of events, parties, food deals, etc., we also have an incoming Typhoon during the first part of the holiday and a lot of adjustments to the city's infrastructure, like buses and metro. This guide is not just written for tourists, but also for long-termers. I've lived in Shanghai for 17 years, and have always felt a bit lost when it came to October Holiday, a long week holiday that some media seem to forget about. Turns out, there is A LOT GOING ON.

Pro-Tip: Forward this guide to yourself (and friends) for easy reference, and be a pal: share it on your Moments. If you're new here, slam the follow button, we're City News Service, your gateway to Shanghai. =)

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A Quick Introduction: How To Navigate This Guide

Welcome to the Shanghai October Holiday Guide of Power, one Guide to rule them all.

This beast is nothing short of a tome, so in TLDR fashion, here are the key points of info you'll find here:

1. Traffic, Metro, and Weather: Make sure you pay attention to this section. Some popular Metro lines will be closing early, while others have extended hours during the holiday.

2. Dining & Drinks: We've got brunches from The Bull & Claw, Azul Group, Bella Vita, as well as drink deals from La Siesta, and a pretty deep discount (that you won't find anywhere else) at Art333.

3. Nightlife & Entertainment Activities: Yes, Shanghai-ren (and visitors), there will be many cool things to do during the holiday.

4. Art, Lifestyle, Culture Events: Yoga retreats, hanfu festivals, light shows galore.

5. Things to Do With Your Pets!: It's the holiday for our furry friends toooo.

In a separate note, we cover a number of colorful pop-ups happening around the city great for kids that look like something to tickle the tykes, as well as a piece dedicated to exploring the Top 7 Nature Escapes During October holiday.

Weather Forecast: Cold Front and Typhoon Alert

The holiday forecast promises a mix of weather, perfect for both indoor and outdoor activities. However, from October 1-3, expect rain and strong winds due to Typhoon Krathon, which has intensified into a super typhoon. The storm is expected to impact coastal areas, including Shanghai, particularly on October 2. Afterward, from October 3-7, the weather will clear up, offering ideal conditions for outdoor sightseeing with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C.

Typhoon Krathon is set to make landfall on Taiwan's southwest coast by October 2 and move toward the East China Sea, bringing possible rainfall to Shanghai in the days following. Stay updated on weather reports and adjust your travel plans accordingly.

As Shanghai braces for the National Day holiday, millions of travelers are expected to flood the city. To keep things running smoothly, here's what you need to know about transport changes, weather forecasts, and important travel safety updates.

Bus Changes:

Shanghai's bus system will also see changes. 74 bus routes will be suspended, rerouted, or modified, including popular lines like 20, 22, and 33. Some sightseeing buses will be halted entirely, so commuters should check updates online or at bus stops for real-time info.

Toll-Free Roads During Golden Week:

Good news for drivers. Shanghai will introduce "quasi-free-flow" tolling at Jiangqiao and Jiaxi toll stations, allowing vehicles with ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) to pass without stopping. This system will improve traffic efficiency by 8.5 percent during peak times, offering a smoother journey for drivers. Be sure to follow on-site instructions and pay attention to guidance screens as you approach toll stations.

Metro:

The Shanghai Metro will extend service hours on key lines – Lines 1, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 13 – between September 30 and October 1, as well as from October 4 to 6, to accommodate the expected surge in travelers. The Nanjing Road E. (Lines 2 & 10) and Yuyuan Garden (Line 14) stations will temporarily close daily after 4pm from October 1 to 7 due to crowd control measures.

Additional night trains will run on Lines 2 and 17 on October 6, and on Lines 1, 2, 10, and 17 on October 7, ensuring more options for late-night travelers. However, note that transfers between lines will not be available during these extended hours.

24 Hour Train Services:

Both Shanghai Railway Station and Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station will keep their waiting rooms open 24/7 from September 29 to October 8, to accommodate over 49.2 million travelers. Additional trains to popular destinations such as Hangzhou, Nanchang and Zhengzhou have been scheduled. Travelers are encouraged to arrive early and double-check their tickets for a smooth experience.

Ferries:

The East Jinling Ferry on the Huangpu River will stop operating between noon and 6:30pm from October 1 to 7.

Bund Sightseeing Tunnel:

Closed from 4pm to 9:30pm every day during the holiday.

Traffic Restrictions (4:30pm-11:30pm daily):

• Puxi: Major roads surrounding The Bund, including Nanjing Road E., Sichuan Road, and others in that area, will be closed to motor vehicles. If you're driving around these parts, you're going to want to avoid it entirely or plan alternative routes.
  
• Pudong: The area around Lujiazui, especially the roads circling the financial district, will also be off-limits to cars.

Keep in mind that emergency vehicles and those with special permits are still allowed into these areas. The police might adjust these times if needed, so stay flexible and keep checking for updates!

Exit-Entry Service Center Closures

For those needing passport or visa services, all exit-entry administration offices will be closed from October 1 to 7. Services will resume on October 12, so plan accordingly. Urgent inquiries can be directed to the National Immigration Administration hotline at 12367.

Let's Start this List Off Right... Get 40 percent Off for a Dinner for Two at Art333

That hard-to-find 26-floor Bund-side restaurant that we recently covered, is doing a "wow" set menu at a very good price. 998 yuan per couple (not per person) will get you a four-course meal for you and your honey. Originally prices were at over 1,600 yuan for the set. Char-grilled octopus, Dalian scallops, and Beef Wellington make appearances. Definitely something to forward to friends.

Drink Like a Spaniard at La Siesta!

Feeling a bit parched? Craving some tapas action to fuel your post-siesta, pre-fiesta vibes? La Siesta's got you. From October 1 to 7, head over to their Andalusian haven on Shaanxi Road N. and "drink like a Spaniard." The deal? Buy one drink, and not only do you get a second one, but they'll throw in a tasty tapa to keep the buzz going. Yes, free stuff is happening. Every day from 2-6pm.

You're not just sipping drinks here, you're living the "Qué tal, amigo" lifestyle – just like you would in any street-side bodega in Córdoba. So, grab that Vermouth or Estrella Galicia (both are dangerously affordable) and prepare to sip, snack, and snooze (in no particular order). ¡Olé!

If you go:

Address: 600 Shaanxi Rd N.,near Xinzha Rd 陕西北路600号,近新闸路

10 Days of Glorious Treat-Yo-Self Surf & Turf, Boozy Brunch at The Bull & Claw

The Bull & Claw offers a brunch you'll need to plan ahead for, as it's likely to get fully booked. Their menu features several "make a reservation now" dishes throughout the holiday break, including crab claw eggs benedict, waffle platters, cod fish tacos, and, of course, whole lobsters.

If you go:

• Address: 110 Fenyang Rd, near Fuxing Rd M. 汾阳路11号, 近复兴中路
• Tel: 3356-7608

The Michelin Guide's Food Festival

NOTE: THIS HAS ALREADY STARTED:

Foodies, get ready to loosen your belts. Shanghai is hosting a full-on gourmet showdown, bringing together some of the best Michelin-starred restaurants from across China – Beijing, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and, of course, Shanghai. It's like the Avengers of food festivals.

Big-name chefs like Riley Sanders from Canvas in Bangkok and Raymond Tham from Beta in Malaysia are flying in to whip up exclusive tasting menus. Expect some culinary fireworks. It's basically a dream come true for anyone who gets weak at the knees for Michelin-level food.

If you go:

Date: September 30-October 3

Venue: Taikoo Hui Rooftop Garden

Address: 789 Nanjing Rd W. 南京西路789

October 4-6:A Mini-Food Fest at Tonglefang. 10 Countries to Snack On!

The folks at Yingos and Zeitgeist are hosting a Mini-Food Fest, which is a great option if you've partied too late and missed brunch at places like Azul, Polux, Bull & Claw, and Bella Vita.

What's cool about this mini-food fest is that it's not tied to any specific brands or restaurants. It's simply a group of expats from different countries serving up some of their favorite dishes from home.

Head down with a friend or lover, and snack around the world.

• Juicy American smoked beef on the barbie. Who doesn't love juicy Americans?
• Dutch fries. Jah!
• Artisinal local dumplings & cocktails. Hen hao.
• Austrian street food. Jah!
• Mexican tacos and more. Que rico!
• Italian goodies... mysterious! Ciao amore!
• Chilean empanadas and Argentinian BBQ. Venga!
• There will be a huge Spanish Paella. Venga pronto!
• Serbian Cevapcici & grilled meats

If you go:

Event Date: October 4-6

Venue: Tonglefang Courtyard

Address: 537 Haifang Rd 海防路537号

Tickets: 100 yuan (At the Door)

Mamma Mia... Brunch, Italian Style at Bella Vita

Bella Vita Bistrò is serving up an irresistible Italian Brunch for Golden Week, featuring fresh pasta, farm eggs, and aromatic black truffle. Indulge in dishes like sunny-side-up eggs with Italian cured meats or rich tagliatelle with prawns and bisque. Top it all off with a creamy burrata or classic tiramisu for dessert. For extra indulgence, add a drizzle of seasonal black truffle.

The laid-back, stylish vibe makes it the perfect spot to unwind with a free-flow of Italian cocktails, including spritzes and Negronis. Golden Week brunches don't get better than this!

If you go:

Opening hours: 11:30am-3:30pm

Address: 318 Tianping Rd, near Huashan Rd 天平路318号,近华山路

Tel: 199-0179-4204

Mexican Brunch all Week Long. Let the Margaritas and Guacamole Flow...

Mexico's central kitchen in Shanghai, Cantina Agave is hosting brunch all week long during October Holiday. Everyone knows Cantina, so if we're going to say anything useful here: book ahead, this one will fill up, especially toward the end of the week when the weather is good for terrace wining and dining. Say hi to Raffi if you see him. Tell him you saw this on City News Service, why not!

Parlay Is Doing Naughty BBQ Brunch All Week, Plus Activities

Looking for plans this Golden Week? Parlay Restaurant & Sports has you covered with a packed lineup of events for everyone! Here's what's happening:

Oct 1-7th | 11am-4pm

Golden Week Brunch – Enjoy a daily brunch with a 2-hour free-flow option starting at 198 yuan. Perfect for gatherings with friends and family!

Oct 4 | 5pm-7pm

Primal Pints – Half-priced pints all night! Grab a cold one and kick off your evening right.

Oct 5-6 | 11am-4pm

BBQ, Brunch & Beats – Savor BBQ delights and groove to live DJ beats in the sunshine.

Oct 6 | 1pm-4:30pm

Parlay Mid Autumn Classic Cornhole Tourney – Get competitive and enjoy an afternoon of fun with friends.

Oct 6 | 10am

UFC 307 – Don't miss the thrilling title fight and undercard action.

Oct 6 | 9:30pm

NFL in London – Watch the Jets take on the Vikings in a heated international clash.

If you go:

Address: Room 103, Bldg 18, 358 Kang Ding Rd 康定路358号

Tel: 132-6299-3919

Everyone Loves Polux. Get your French Brunch Fix all Week.

Everyone loves a meal at Polux. The big question is, why Paul Pairet and team haven't expanded this brand all over the world by now. For those of you visiting Shanghai, Polux is Michelin Chef Paul Pairet's portfolio and his most accessible restaurant on price. He's got a pallet born in Shanghai, and it's amazing. Hit up Polux at least once!

A Splash of Delicious Fusion, France & Turkey at All Week Charbon Brunch

Who said you can't have a great meal in a mall? Charbon is another outstanding place by Paul Pairet. The menu is unique in that it is inspired by Chef Paul's travels around the world, most notably blending his signature French flavors with Mediterranean/Turkish delights. The hummus and eggs mayo are must-orders. Actually, everything is good. Go wild.

All Week Brunch at The Rooster:

Hot Honey Muffins, Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwiches, Breakfast Burritos, Bloody Marys ... Well, once you've sobered up from your beer gut-busting the night before, head down to The Rooster for some yummy, slightly naughty treats to cure that hangover. Say hi to Chase if you see him!

Brunch like a Peruvian!

Colca, and both Azul's will be serving brunch throughout Golden Week. So for those of you that will be party-binging and who will be in need of "recovery brunches," Azul has been taking care of us for over two decades now. Thanks, Eduardo!

Discounts on All A La Carte Menu Items at Azul Group Restaurants

All of Azul Group restaurants have been selected by the government to participate in the stimulus consumption voucher program. Cool. Participating restaurants are:

• Azul Shang Kang Li
• Azul Weave
• Colca
• Both Azul Italianos
• Second Sisters

In the Mood for a Big Concernt? Well, hey... John Legend is in Town

John Legend is set to grace Shanghai with his highly anticipated "A Night of Songs & Stories" tour on October 2, 2024, at the iconic Mercedes-Benz Arena. In this intimate solo performance, the 12-time Grammy Award winner will perform reimagined versions of his most beloved tracks, including "All of Me" and "Ordinary People," alongside new material from his recent album "LEGEND." Audiences can expect a night filled with beautiful music, unexpected anecdotes from his life and career, and the charisma only an EGOT-winning artist like Legend can bring. It's been six years since his last performance in Shanghai, making this a rare opportunity for fans to experience his signature blend of soulful melodies and heartfelt stories.

Ticket prices range from 380 to 1680 yuan, and can be purchased here with limited availability. Be sure to secure your spot soon for what promises to be a magical evening.

If you go

• Date: October 2
• Venue: Mercedes-Benz Arena
• Address: 1200 Expo Avenue, near Shangnan Rd 世博大道1200号, 近上南路

Stay Classy and go see SWAN LAKE

Get ready for a big one, folks. Moscow Stanislavsky Ballet is coming to town, bringing "Swan Lake" – but not just any version. This is Vladimir Burmeister's take on the iconic tale, a signature production for the Stanislavsky crew. We're talking about the same version that's wowed audiences at the Palais Garnier in Paris and La Scala in Milan. Classic, right?

The story? Oh, it's packed with drama. You've got Odette, cursed by a wicked sorcerer and stuck in swan form until Prince Siegfried stumbles upon her while he's out hunting. Spoiler: She's not just any swan. Cue the tragic love story, complete with all the romantic highs and magical twists. Will true love break the spell? Guess you'll have to watch and see.

If you go:

• Dates: October 3
• Venue: Poly Grand Theatre 保利大剧院
• Address: 159 Baiyin Rd 白银路159号
• Tickets: 80-980 yuan (click here to buy tickets)

Oh Man, You're Stuck in Shanghai? Head to Specters for some CHEAP THRILLS

Normally, we'd write these blurbs ourselves. But we like Morgan Short's direct invitation.

Stuck in Shanghai for the holidays? So are we! Come down and drown your sorrows with us! Specters, the good times rock and roll dive bar is open every damn night of the Golden Week, serving up quality tunes on the stereo, libations aplenty, free hugs, posi-vibes, life and career advice, shoulders to lean on, shelter in the storm, ummm… yeah! That's pretty much it. We'll be having our regular DJs coming down to help us out with music – could be a bit of punk rock, could be a little indie pop, could be a little vintage 50s/60s R 'n' R, could be 40 Oasis songs all in a row, could be all those things! No cover ever and the doors open daily at 8pm. Close at 4am – Morgan Short

If you go:

• Address: Bldg D, 753 Yuyuan Rd, near Zhenning Rd 愚园路753号近镇宁路
• Pro-Tip: The entrance isn't exactly on Yuyuan Road, but rather down an alley on the street.

"Happy Summer" Shanghai-Show Bund German Beer Festival

Get ready for a taste of Germany at the "Happy Summer" Shanghai-Show Bund German Beer Festival! This festival will authentically recreate the Munich Oktoberfest, featuring traditional barrel-tapping ceremonies, lively band performances, and a grand parade of actors in Bavarian costumes. Pair your favorite German beer with delicious food and be amazed by the breathtaking light show of the Shanghai International Light Festival. This is one event you won't want to miss!

If you go:

• Date: September 26-October 6
• Venue: Oriental Fisherman's Wharf in Yangpu Riverside 杨浦滨江东方渔人码头
• Address: 1088 Yangshupu Rd 杨树浦路1088号

Budweiser STORM Music Festival 2024 Shanghai

Get ready for an epic electronic music experience at the Budweiser STORM Music Festival 2024 Shanghai. The international electronic music festival is one of the highlights of "Shanghai Summer." The two-day event, running on October 2-3 at the Shanghai International Circuit, will feature three distinct stages, world-class DJs, and a mesmerizing blend of lights, sound, and fireworks. Immerse yourself in the music and create unforgettable memories at the "Perfect Storm."

If you go

• Date: October 2-3
• Venue: Shanghai International Circuit, P4-P6 上海国际赛车场P4-P6
• Address: 2000 Yining Rd 伊宁路2000号
• Admission: 680-1880 yuan(Single ticket: 680-880 yuan;Coupon ticket: 880-1880 yuan)

Ladies Rock – Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, Pink Tribute

Want to have a bit of fun with the girlfriends (or boyfriends)? Take your group, or harem down to The Pearl for a fun night of lady boss vibes, jiving to the tunes of Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, and Pink. Pearl's Red Star Band is ready to do justice to these chart-toppers, performing the greatest hits that have made them legends. Expect a night packed with singalongs, high-energy dancing, and the kind of electrifying showmanship that defines these pop queens. If you go, and see a gentleman with a red beard, say "Hi Grant"!

If you go:

• Date: Oct 2, 8pm
• Venue: The Pearl 珍珠剧场
• Address: 471 Zhapu Rd 乍浦路471号
• Admission: 100-120 yuan
• Get your tickets here.

Rhapsody of Fire China Tour 2024 (Shanghai)

Get ready to rock with Misty Mountain, China's rising star in symphonic metal music, as they join forces with the legendary Italian symphonic metal band, Rhapsody of Fire, for a special performance in Shanghai during the National Day holiday! Having been founded 30 years, Rhapsody of Fire, one of the world's most renowned progressive epic symphonic power metal bands, brings their new album, "Challenge the Wind," to China.

With their Hollywood and RPG metal sound, this top-tier Italian metal brand is set to ignite a renaissance of epic metal. Immerse yourself in a magical journey as they perform their classic hits like "Emerald Sword," "Land of Immortals," "Dawn of Victory," and "The Magic of The Wizard's Dream" live on stage. Join the music feast and sing along to these legendary symphonic metal songs!

If you go:

• Date: Oct 2, 8pm
• Venue: Mao Livehouse
• Address: 3/F, 308 Chongqing Rd S. 重庆南路308号3楼
• Admission: 480-980 yuan

Cwin Game Music Carnival

Almost since the dawn of video games, music has been an inseparable part of these interactive entertainment experiences. The "Cwin Game Music Carnival" is set to take place at Shanghai International Music Park from October 2 to 4. This event is a grand gathering of top game music composers, performers, gamers, and music enthusiasts.

For the first time, the carnival will seamlessly blend various music genres, including symphony, electronic music, Chinese traditional music, and rock, with popular games to create an unprecedented audio-visual feast. Beyond offering a three-day game music extravaganza for gamers, numerous major game companies will bring their latest titles to the carnival, providing opportunities for players to try out new games, purchase merchandise, and more. With music as the connecting thread, the carnival aims to cater to the diverse entertainment needs of gamers.

Additionally, the recently opened Video Game Museum of CADPA will host an interaction game themed on the blockbuster video game "Black Myth: Wukong" event at the carnival.

If you go:

• Date: Oct 2-4
• Venue: Shanghai International Music Park (North Park of Shanghai Lavender Park, near Shanghai Disney Resort) 上海国际音乐村(上海薰衣草公园北园内,上海迪士尼乐园旁)
• Address: 180 Tanghuang Rd, Chuansha New Town 川沙新镇唐黄路180号
• Admission: 398-1698 yuan

Head out of Shanghai for a Yoga Retreat in the Mountains

This one sounds nice if you need a break from a concrete jungle. Mountain view houses, healthy food, hiking trails, and regular yoga sessions.

For Details, contact WeChat: 150-0061-2465

Check Out an Art Exhibition: The Hudec Code – Legendary Architect Unveiled at Rockbund

Shanghai history nerds, here's one for you. The Hudec Code just kicked off at Rockbund, showcasing the life and work of László Hudec, aka the "Father of Shanghai Modernist Architecture." This isn't just any run-of-the-mill exhibition – this is the real deal. Fresh off the dig, over 50 previously unseen pieces from Hudec's personal archives are being displayed for the first time ever. We're talking architectural sketches, blueprints, and personal letters – plus some intimate 16mm footage shot by the man himself.

If you've ever stared up at the iconic Park Hotel or the Grand Cinema and wondered about the genius behind them, this is your chance to dive into the story of the architect who helped shape Shanghai's skyline. It's happening at the Christian Literature Society Building (yeah, that crazy one near the Bund), with a second venue opening up later at Waibaidu Bridge. Runs through early January, so you've got time, but don't sleep on this one.

If you go:

• Dates: Now until January 8, 2025, 10:30am-8pm
• Venue: Christian Literature Society Building
• Address: 1/F, 128 Huqiu Rd 虎丘路128号
• Tickets: Free

Have Fun with Beloved Sanrio Family at First-ever Sanrio Fanfest

The first-ever Sanrio Fanfest will bring together the beloved Sanrio family for a series of fun-filled activities, including crossover performances, celebrity appearances, interactive games, and limited-edition merchandise. Special performances by DJ Hello Kitty and collaborations with stars such as Lai Meiyun, Zando, SNH48, and more will feature prominently on stage. Attendees can also meet Sanrio designers and get exclusive signed artworks.

If you go:

• Date: October 6-7
• Venue: Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Centerartwork
• Address: 1099 Guozhan Rd 国展路1099号
• Admission: 158 yuan (available on Damai App and mini-program)

Check out this Cool Light Show: The "Sanxingdui Fantasia: Ancient Country Shu's Dream"

A sensory light show inspired by the ancient Sanxingdui civilization, featuring holographic projections, immersive visuals and interactive exhibits. Visitors can experience a recreation of the Sanxingdui excavation process. Free entry with reservations.

If you go:

• Date: September 15-October 7,10am-10pm
• Venue: Zhangyuan Garden
• Address: Lane 188, Maoming Rd N. 茂名北路188弄

OMG a Hanfu Festival! Check out the North Bund Lifestyle Fest.

Immerse yourself in hanfu culture with traditional games handcrafts, and performances. The first 50 hanfu participants receive special tote bags. Enjoy a unique blend of ancient Chinese aesthetics, wish-making activities, and craft workshops. Performances pause during National Day.

If you go:

• Dates: October 1-7, October 18-20
• Time: 3:30pm-9pm
• Venue: North Bund Bay
• Address: 500 Dongdaming Rd 东大名路500号

In the Mood for... BOOKS. The Sinan Beautiful Bookstore Festival

A festival blending traditional Chinese culture with books, tea, and live performances. Featuring over 90 vendors, the event offers workshops on intangible cultural heritage, interactive parades, and live folk music performances.

If you go:

• Date: September 30-October 3
• Time: 1:30pm-8:30pm
• Venue: Sinan Mansion
• Address:51-61 Sinan Rd 思南路51-61号

A Massive Festival Celebrating Everything Models & Figurines

A massive figurine and model exhibition with over 300 exhibitors and 1,000 artists. Explore over 10,000 unique models, exclusive on-site merchandise, and live talks by industry figures. Celebrate creativity through IP collaborations and new releases.

If you go:

• Date: October 2-3
• Venue: Shanghai New International Expo Center
• Address: 2345 Longyang Rd 龙阳路2345号

Morgan Short has been involved in Shanghai's Media scene since forever. He's published on SmartShanghai, Nomfluence, and perhaps a few other places. We asked Morgan for some suggestions on what he'd recommend for folks visiting Shanghai for the first time, an under-the-radar option, and his new favorite place.

For Newbies to Shanghai: Check Out The Captain's Bar

A Shanghai Bund-side classic. If you're looking for a postcard night out in Shanghai's most iconic district, you can't go wrong with Captain's Bar. A hostel bar with a nautical theme, this long-running establishment boasts a snazzy and low-key patio overlooking the Huangpu River. Gorgeous views. Great food and cocktails to match. To extend the evening after the sun sets, we're also recommending the House of Blues and Jazz right around the corner for a live show.

Under the Radar: Party at Multi-Room Club System

The seat of Shanghai's underground music scene, SYSTEM is a warehouse techno club on par with any you might find in New York or Berlin. With multiple themed rooms and stages, if you are looking for a throbbing night out at the club, it's a sure bet. For the holidays, they're hosting a week-long electronic music and arts festival – ORBITAL FEST – with international and local artists serving up avant-garde electronics and performances. One to check out if you want to see what the next generation of Shanghai club kids are up to.

A New Favorite: TaKo

Just a few weeks old, TaKo serves up tattoos (Ta) and cocktails (Ko) is a super friendly environment in Jing'an. TaKo is a chill cocktail bar-slash-tattoo parlor with super creative and amazing drinks and the option for some permanent ink (with an appointment!) Expect variations on the classics – a Mojito, Negroni, and even a Bloody Mary – in a hip-and-trendy-but-relaxed-environment. Look out for their arty community events and guest DJs on the weekend.

Elysia Bagley is a drinks industry writer and content developer with a side passion for self-care. This holiday, she's all about taking a "time out" to give your body and mind some much-deserved love. Here are her recommendations:

Hit the Barre!

Recover from those boozy brunches by sweating it out at the barre! MYBarre offers super fun, fully-body workouts that combine ballet-and-pilates-inspired movement with functional fitness training. Whether you want to sculpt those buns, get a deep stretch, or take on a fast-paced cardio sesh, you'll leave these upbeat, body-positive classes feeling like a total champ.

It is open daily throughout the holidays. For locations, scheduling, and sign-ups, follow the official WeChat account MYbarre脉芭. There are multiple locations.

Soothe Your Aches at Subconscious Day Spa

The ultimate self-care, treat yourself to a massage or spa day this holiday – just do it, you're worth it! Long-standing and well-loved Subconscious Day Spa offers everything from body scrubs and facials to TCM massages and Swedish oil massages, carried out in tranquil, pristine settings by professional masseuses. So Zen.

Open daily throughout the holidays. For locations, services and bookings, follow the official WeChat 桑格水疗会所 SubconsciousDaySpa.

If you go:

• Venue: Unit 301, JC Plaza
• Address: 1225 Nanjing Rd W.
• Tel: 6327-1193

For the Ladies: Embrace Your New Energy

Female sensuality is often shrouded in secrecy and shame, but there are powerful women in the world-shattering the stigma – in Shanghai, Ciga Zhou is one goddess doing just that. This break, awaken your sacred sensual energies with this special flow meditation and free dance session; a dynamic sensory experience of simple movements and conscious breathing alongside live beats from a DJ. Please note this session is open to women only.

If you go:

• Date: October 2, 3-5pm.
• Admission: 98 yuan per person. Follow the official WeChat account: CigaZhou to sign up.

Go Swimming with Your Cutest, Bestest Good Boy and/or Good Girl!

This is gonna be the LAST STOP for pool parties in Shanghai. Perhaps you say "Oh... but alas, I have been to so many pool parties already." Halt good denizen. This is a DOG POOL PARTY.

Woooooooffff!!!!! Bring Fido, Milo and Barbara out for a fun day of splashing, barking and frisbee games. Omg this is gonna be so fun. Yes, it's out in Pudong, but Buddy Dog will be having a BBQ as well, so food, all taken care of.

If you go:

• Address: No. 742 Renyi Village, Xinchang Township, Pudong New Area (浦东新区新场镇仁义村742号)
• WeChat: Talk to Bess if you have any questions, or trouble finding the place: BessZou

Adopt a Pet at Parlay + Charity Sale

Parlay has a busy bustling week bursting at the seems with events, but they aren't forgetting themselves as a pet friendly place. Amen! Head down to check out little angels looking for forever homes, as well as some charity sales.

If you go:

• Address: Rm 103, Bldg 18, 358 Kangding Rd
• Tel: 132-6299-3919

Here's another pet adoption fair at the beginning of Golden Week taking place at BFC. This one has limited spots are available for dog adoptions – just scan the QR to sign up and get your new buddy sorted.

Even if you're not looking to adopt, swing by for the pet-friendly market vibes, support local animal welfare groups, and soak up the heartwarming feels. Plus, who can say no to a day of playing with cute animals?

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Did anyone make it down this far? Did you find this guide helpful? We'd love to hear from you!