1. What are some annual events and festivals held in the Shanghai French Concession?
There are several annual events and festivals held in the Shanghai French Concession, including:
1. Le Petit Marché – Held twice a year in spring and autumn, this popular outdoor market features vendors selling handmade crafts, vintage goods, and local food.
2. Bastille Day Celebration – Every July 14th, the French community in Shanghai comes together to celebrate France’s national holiday with a parade, live music performances, and traditional French food.
3. Shanghai International Literary Festival – This week-long literary event takes place every March/April and features talks and book signings by both Chinese and international authors.
4. JZ Festival – A music festival held annually in October featuring jazz musicians from around the world performing at various venues across the French Concession.
5. Dragon Festival – Celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month (usually June), this traditional Chinese festival is marked with dragon boat races on Suzhou Creek in Xuhui District.
6. Shanghai Fashion Week – Held twice a year in April and October, this fashion event showcases local fashion designers’ collections through runway shows and exhibitions.
7. The Great British Days Out – Organized by the British Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai, this family-friendly event celebrates British culture with activities such as garden parties, pub quizzes, and traditional afternoon tea.
8. Christmas Market at Ferguson Lane – In December, Ferguson Lane transforms into a festive Christmas market with food vendors, live entertainment, and unique gift stalls selling holiday decor and gifts.
9. Mid-Autumn Festival – Celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month (usually September/October), this traditional Chinese festival is marked with colorful lantern displays throughout the French Concession.
10. Chinatown Food Street Festival – During Golden Week (first week of October), Wukang Road becomes alive with food booths selling a variety of Chinese street snacks during this annual food festival.
2. How do locals celebrate Chinese New Year in the French Concession area?
1. Visiting temples: Some locals may choose to visit temples, such as the Jing’an Temple or the Longhua Temple, to pray for blessings and good fortune in the coming year.
2. Family gatherings: Just like in other parts of China, family is an important aspect of Chinese New Year celebrations in the French Concession area. Locals may gather with their families for a reunion dinner on New Year’s Eve and spend quality time together during the holiday.
3. Hanging red decorations: Red is a lucky color in Chinese culture, so you will see many locals decorating their homes and businesses with red lanterns, couplets, and other traditional decorations.
4. Watching lion dances: Lion dances are a popular performance during Chinese New Year and can be seen in various locations throughout the French Concession area. Locals may also participate in these dances by feeding red envelopes (containing money) to the lions for good luck.
5. Eating traditional food: Local markets and shops will be filled with festive food items, such as tangyuan (sweet rice balls), nian gao (sticky rice cake), and dumplings. These traditional dishes are believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the new year.
6. Shopping: The French Concession area is known for its trendy boutiques and shops, which will likely have special promotions or sales during Chinese New Year. Many locals enjoy shopping for new clothes, home decorations, and other necessities to start off the new year fresh.
7. Fireworks and firecrackers: While not as prevalent as they used to be due to safety concerns, some locals still enjoy setting off fireworks or firecrackers during Chinese New Year to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.
8. Joining public celebrations: The French Concession area may hold public events or cultural performances during Chinese New Year that allow both locals and foreigners to come together and celebrate this important holiday.
9. Giving red envelopes: It is a tradition to give red envelopes filled with money to younger family members and unmarried adults for good luck and blessings in the new year. In some cases, locals may also give red envelopes to service providers, such as hairdressers or security guards.
10. Exchanging gifts: Like Christmas in the West, Chinese New Year is a time for gift-giving. Locals may exchange gifts with their families, friends, and colleagues as a gesture of goodwill and appreciation.
3. Are there any traditional Chinese cultural events or festivals held in the French Concession?
Yes, there are several traditional Chinese cultural events and festivals held in the French Concession. Some examples include:
1. Chinese New Year celebrations: The vibrant and colorful festivities of the Chinese New Year are celebrated in various locations throughout the French Concession, with dragon and lion dances, lantern shows, traditional performances, and food stalls.
2. Lantern Festival: Held on the 15th day of the first lunar month, the Lantern Festival is a traditional Chinese festival that marks the end of the New Year celebrations. It is celebrated in different parts of the French Concession with lantern displays, riddle games, and street performances.
3. Qingming Festival (Tomb-Sweeping Day): This festival is observed to pay respects to ancestors by cleaning their tombs and offering sacrifices. In the French Concession, some temples hold ceremonies and rituals to commemorate this day.
4. Dragon Boat Festival: Also known as Duanwu Festival, it is celebrated on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month to commemorate a famous poet and patriot Qu Yuan. Dragon boat races are held at local parks or rivers in the French Concession as part of the festivities.
5. Mid-Autumn Festival: As one of China’s most important festivals, this event celebrates family reunion under a full moon. In the French Concession, various activities such as mooncake-making workshops, lantern exhibitions, and performances take place during this time.
Apart from these major festivals, there are also smaller events like temple fairs and food markets that showcase traditional Chinese customs and culture in the French Concession.
4. What is the biggest and most popular festival in the French Concession area?
The biggest and most popular festival in the French Concession area is the Shanghai International Arts Festival. It takes place every year in autumn and features a variety of international and local performances, including theater, dance, music, and visual arts. The festival attracts visitors from all over the world and brings a vibrant cultural atmosphere to the French Concession neighborhood.
5. How do locals celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival in the French Concession?
The Mid-Autumn Festival in the French Concession area is typically celebrated with traditional activities and customs such as lantern making and viewing, mooncake eating, and family gatherings.
1. Lantern Making: Residents of the French Concession area, especially children, often engage in lantern making activities. They create colorful paper lanterns in various shapes and sizes, such as traditional round ones or more modern designs like animals or cartoon characters.
2. Lantern Viewing: Once the lanterns are created, they are hung outside balconies or gathered in public spaces for a collective lantern viewing experience. The bright and colorful display of lanterns creates a festive atmosphere in the neighborhood.
3. Mooncake Eating: Mooncakes are an essential part of the Mid-Autumn Festival celebration. These sweet pastries are filled with lotus seed paste or other traditional fillings and sometimes have salted egg yolks inside to symbolize the full moon. Many locals will gather with friends and family to share these delicious treats during the festival.
4. Family Gatherings: The Mid-Autumn Festival is also a time for families to come together for a reunion dinner. In the French Concession, some families may choose to have their reunion dinner at one of the many historic mansions or charming restaurants in the area.
5. Cultural Performances: To celebrate this traditional holiday, there are often cultural performances organized by local community organizations or businesses. These performances may include Chinese music concerts, dance performances, or storytelling sessions that showcase Chinese culture and traditions.
Overall, locals in the French Concession celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival by embracing their heritage and spending quality time with loved ones while enjoying delicious food and engaging in traditional activities.
6. Is there any unique festival that only takes place in the French Concession area?
Yes, the French Concession area hosts a unique festival called “Shanghai French Week” every year. It celebrates the cultural and historical ties between France and Shanghai, featuring various events such as art exhibitions, film screenings, fashion shows, music performances, and French food tastings. This festival is usually held in November around the time of the anniversary of the establishment of the French Concession in 1849.
7. Do expats participate in local events and festivals in the French Concession?
Yes, many expats in the French Concession participate in local events and festivals. These events and festivals range from traditional Chinese celebrations such as the Spring Festival and Mid-Autumn Festival, to international events like the Shanghai International Arts Festival and Shanghai Pride. The French Concession is known for its lively atmosphere and many expats enjoy immersing themselves in the culture and community through these events. Additionally, some expats may also organize their own cultural events or participate in neighborhood activities organized by local businesses or organizations.
8. Can tourists join in on the festivities during these local events and festivals?
Yes, tourists are usually welcome to join in on the festivities during local events and festivals. However, it is always a good idea to check with event organizers or local authorities beforehand for any specific guidelines or restrictions.
9. Are there any food or drink festivals held in the French Concession area?
Yes, there are several food and drink festivals held in the French Concession area throughout the year. Some popular ones include:
1. Shanghai International Food and Drink Festival: This annual festival takes place in September in various locations across the city, including the French Concession area. It features a variety of international cuisines and drinks from around the world.
2. Croissant Carnival: This festival celebrates one of the most iconic treats of France – croissants. Held in June at Xintiandi Style, it showcases different varieties of croissants from local bakeries and cafes in the French Concession area.
3. Beer Festivals: There are several beer festivals held in the French Concession area, such as Shanghai Craft Beer Festival and Brew Battle Shanghai. These events bring together local craft breweries, food trucks, live music, and other fun activities for beer lovers.
4. Wine Tasting Events: The French Concession is known for its many wine bars and shops, making it a perfect location for wine tasting events like Wine Riot Shanghai and Shanghai Wine & Cognac Festival.
5. Street Food Festivals: Various street food festivals take place throughout the year in different parts of the French Concession, offering a wide range of delicious street snacks from all over China.
6. Tea Culture Festivals: As an important part of Chinese culture, tea plays a big role in the French Concession’s cuisine scene as well. The annual Tea Culture Festival highlights traditional teas from different regions of China and offers tea tastings, demonstrations, workshops, and more.
10. How does the Shanghai Jazz Festival attract visitors and residents of the French Concession?
The Shanghai Jazz Festival attracts visitors and residents of the French Concession through various marketing efforts, including:
1. Advertising and Promotions: The festival is heavily advertised on social media platforms, local newspapers, and billboards in popular areas of the French Concession. This increases awareness and generates interest among potential attendees.
2. Collaborations with Local Businesses: The festival partners with local businesses in the French Concession such as cafes, restaurants, bars, and hotels to offer special promotions and discounts for festival attendees. This not only adds value to attendees’ experience but also helps attract more people to the festival.
3. Collaborations with French Concession Organizations: The festival collaborates with organizations like The French Concession Association to promote the event and reach out to their members who are mostly residents of the area.
4. Special Events and Performances: The festival organizes special events like free open-air concerts in popular parks or streets in the French Concession to attract passersby and increase visibility.
5. Easy Accessibility: The festival is easily accessible from different parts of the city, including the French Concession, making it convenient for both tourists and locals to attend.
6. Celebrity Performances: The Shanghai Jazz Festival features internationally renowned jazz musicians that attract a diverse crowd, including jazz enthusiasts from the French Concession.
7. Cultural Experience: The festival offers a unique cultural experience by blending jazz music with Chinese elements like traditional instruments or fusion cuisine during food fairs. This attracts tourists looking for an authentic cultural experience in Shanghai.
8. Word-of-Mouth Recommendations: With its reputation as one of Asia’s top jazz festivals, many people hear about the Shanghai Jazz Festival through word-of-mouth recommendations from friends or family who have attended previous editions of the event.
9. Multilingual Communication: The festival provides information about its lineup and schedule in English, Chinese, and other languages commonly spoken in Shanghai. This makes it easier for non-Chinese-speaking residents of the French Concession to understand and participate in the festival.
10. Family-Friendly Activities: The festival also includes family-friendly activities like kid’s workshops, art exhibitions, and food tastings, making it a fun event for families living in the French Concession.
11. Are there any family-friendly events or festivals held in this area?
Yes, there are several family-friendly events and festivals held in the area, including:– The Downtown Orlando Farmers Market: Held every Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, this market features fresh produce, local vendors, and live entertainment.
– Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival: Held annually in March, this festival showcases the work of over 225 artists from around the world.
– Otronicon: A hands-on interactive technology expo held at the Orlando Science Center, featuring video games, virtual reality experiences, and more.
– Central Florida Fair: An annual fair held in February featuring carnival rides, live music performances, food vendors, and agricultural exhibits.
– Orlando Fringe Festival: A multi-day performing arts festival featuring a variety of shows from local and international artists.
There are also many other events and festivals throughout the year that may cater to families or have specific family-friendly activities. It’s best to check local event calendars for specific dates and details.
12. Can visitors experience traditional Chinese performances, such as lion dances or dragon boat races, during these local festivals?
It is possible to experience traditional Chinese performances during local festivals, such as lion dances or dragon boat races. These are often featured as part of the festivities and can be enjoyed by visitors. However, it is not guaranteed that every local festival will have these performances. It is recommended to check with the specific festival’s organizers or local tourism office for more information on cultural performances during these events.
13. Which hotels or venues host music concerts during major events and festivals?
There are many hotels and venues that host music concerts during major events and festivals. Some popular examples include:
1. The Apollo Theater (New York City, USA) – known for hosting legendary performances by artists such as James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and Ella Fitzgerald.
2. Brixton Academy (London, UK) – a converted cinema that has hosted concerts by acts such as Coldplay, Queens of the Stone Age, and Muse.
3. Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival (Indio, California) – one of the biggest music festivals in the world that takes place over two consecutive weekends in April.
4. Royal Albert Hall (London, UK) – a historic concert venue that has hosted performances by artists such as Bob Dylan, Adele, and Beyoncé.
5. Glastonbury Festival (Pilton, Somerset, UK) – one of the largest music festivals in the world held annually in June.
6. Madison Square Garden (New York City, USA) – an iconic arena that has hosted concerts by popular artists like Billy Joel, Taylor Swift, and Elton John.
7. Lollapalooza Berlin (Berlin, Germany) – a multi-genre music festival held in September at Olympiastadion and Olympic Park Berlin.
8. Red Rocks Amphitheatre (Morrison, Colorado) – an outdoor concert venue with stunning natural acoustics that hosts concerts throughout the summer months.
9. Le Trianon (Paris, France) – a historic theatre transformed into a concert hall that features performances by both established and emerging artists.
10. Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival (Manchester, Tennessee) – a four-day music festival that features a diverse lineup of genres from rock to hip-hop to electronic dance music.
11. Hollywood Bowl (Los Angeles, California) – an iconic amphitheater that hosts concerts throughout the year with views of the Hollywood Hills.
12. New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (New Orleans, Louisiana) – an annual celebration of Louisiana music and culture that has featured acts like Stevie Wonder, Paul Simon, and Bruno Mars.
13. T in the Park (Kinross, Scotland) – a Scottish music festival held annually in July that features a mix of headlining acts and local musicians.
14. Do locals dress up for any of these events or festivals, such as for Halloween or Christmas?
It is common for locals to dress up for Halloween and holiday events like Christmas. Some people may also wear traditional attire during cultural festivals and parades. However, the level of dressing up varies depending on the individual and the event.
15. Are there any outdoor markets or fairs that take place during these special occasions?
Yes, there are usually outdoor markets or fairs that take place during special occasions such as Christmas, Easter, and Independence Day. These markets and fairs often feature vendors selling seasonal products, crafts, and traditional foods. They may also have entertainment and activities for families to enjoy. Some popular examples include the Christmas markets in Germany and the Easter fairs in Spain.
16. What kind of activities can families with children expect during these local events and festivals?
Families can expect a variety of activities and events at local festivals and events, including:
1. Live music performances: Many festivals and events feature live music acts, ranging from local bands to well-known musicians.
2. Games and carnival rides: Kids can enjoy carnival games, rides, and other fun activities at these events.
3. Arts and crafts: Families can participate in hands-on arts and crafts projects such as painting, pottery making, or jewelry making.
4. Food vendors: Local festivals often have a variety of food vendors selling everything from traditional festival foods like funnel cakes to more gourmet options.
5. Petting zoos: Some festivals may have petting zoos where children can interact with and learn about different animals.
6. Face painting: Kids can get their faces painted with fun designs or characters at many festivals.
7. Performances and shows: From puppet shows to magic acts, there are often performances geared towards kids at these events.
8. Contests and competitions: Families can join in on contests or competitions such as pie-eating contest or costume contests.
9. Educational activities: Some events may feature educational booths or workshops on topics like science, nature, or art for kids to learn from.
10. Parades: Many local festivals have parades with floats, marching bands, and performers that are entertaining for the whole family.
11. Interactive exhibits: Kids can explore interactive exhibits that promote learning about different topics such as history, technology, or nature.
12. Sports tournaments and games: Some events may organize sports tournaments or set up areas for families to play games like basketball or cornhole together.
13. Local vendors and farmers markets: Families can browse through vendor booths selling locally made crafts, products, or fresh produce at some festivals.
14. Movie screenings: Some outdoor festivals may offer movie screenings under the stars for families to enjoy together.
15. Cultural experiences: Festivals celebrating different cultures may offer cultural performances, food tastings, or hands-on activities for families to learn and experience new traditions.
16. Fireworks: Many festivals end with a spectacular fireworks show that the whole family can enjoy together.
17. Can visitors purchase local handicrafts or souvenirs at these events and festivals?
It depends on the specific event or festival. Some events and festivals may feature local artisans and vendors selling handicrafts and souvenirs for purchase, while others may not have this option available. It is best to research the specific event or festival beforehand to see if there will be an opportunity to purchase local handicrafts and souvenirs.
18. Which restaurants offer special menus or discounts during popular festivals like Chinese New Year or National Day Golden Week?
Many restaurants in Singapore offer special menus or discounts during popular festivals like Chinese New Year and National Day Golden Week. Some popular examples include:
1. Crystal Jade: This Chinese restaurant chain offers a variety of festive menus during Chinese New Year, with dishes like braised abalone, poached lobster, and yam paste with pumpkin and ginkgo nuts.
2. Si Chuan Dou Hua: This Sichuan restaurant has special promotions during National Day Golden Week, such as a 1-for-1 deal on their signature spicy Szechuan dishes.
3. Hai Tien Lo: This Cantonese restaurant located at Pan Pacific Singapore offers a lavish spread for Chinese New Year, featuring dishes like Buddha-jumps-over-the-wall and braised e-fu noodles with shredded abalone.
4. Lai Wah Restaurant: Known for its famous claypot rice, this traditional Cantonese eatery offers discounts on their signature dish during National Day Golden Week.
5. Komala Vilas: This South Indian vegetarian restaurant has special set menus for Thaipoosam, a Hindu festival celebrated in January or February each year.
6. Marché Mövenpick: This Swiss restaurant chain offers festive promotions and themed menus during events like Oktoberfest and Christmas.
Do note that these are just some examples of restaurants that have offered special menus or discounts in the past for popular festivals in Singapore. It is best to check with individual restaurants or keep an eye out for advertisements to find out about any current promotions or deals available.
19.Tell us about a memorable event you’ve attended in the Shanghai French Concession area.
One memorable event that I attended in the Shanghai French Concession area was a neighborhood street market. It was held on a sunny Sunday afternoon and the streets were closed off to cars, allowing pedestrians to freely explore the stalls set up by local vendors.The atmosphere was lively and bustling, with people of all ages browsing through colorful stalls filled with handmade crafts, vintage clothing, and delicious street food. The vendors were friendly and passionate about their products, often sharing stories behind their creations.
I remember trying some amazing homemade dumplings from a small family-owned stand and bargaining for a beautiful hand-woven scarf with an elderly woman who spoke little English but still managed to communicate with me through gestures.
The event also featured live music performances and local artists showcasing their talents. I remember being struck by the diversity and creativity of the artworks on display, from traditional Chinese paintings to contemporary sculptures.
What made this event even more special was its location in the Shanghai French Concession area. With its charming tree-lined streets, historical buildings, and cozy cafes, it provided the perfect backdrop for such a vibrant community celebration.
I left the event feeling grateful for being able to experience a taste of local culture in such a beautiful and welcoming neighborhood. It truly highlighted the unique fusion of Western and Eastern influences in Shanghai’s development as a global city.
20.What measures are taken to ensure safety at these crowded events and festivals, especially with so many people celebrating together?
There are several measures that are taken to ensure safety at crowded events and festivals:
1. Crowd control measures: Event and festival organizers work closely with local authorities to develop a comprehensive crowd control plan. This may include designated entry and exit points, limited capacity, and barriers or fencing to guide the flow of the crowd.
2. Security presence: Events and festivals often have a visible security presence in the form of uniformed personnel, plainclothes officers, and/or trained security guards. These individuals are responsible for monitoring the crowd and responding to any potential threats.
3. Bag checks: Many events and festivals have implemented bag check policies to screen for prohibited items such as weapons or drugs. This helps to deter potential threats and ensures that everyone in attendance is aware of what they can bring into the event space.
4. Medical support: Events and festivals typically have on-site medical personnel or first aid stations to provide immediate assistance in case of injuries or medical emergencies.
5. Communications plan: Organizers often have a communication plan in place in case of an emergency. This may include designated evacuation routes, ways of communicating with attendees (e.g., loudspeakers), or providing updates through social media channels.
6. Crowd management training: Staff and volunteers working at events and festivals may receive training on how to handle large crowds, identify suspicious behavior, and respond appropriately in emergency situations.
7. Contingency plans: In addition to having a communication plan, organizers may also have contingency plans in place for various scenarios such as severe weather conditions, power outages, or other emergencies.
8. Compliance with regulations: All events must comply with local safety regulations related to fire codes, building capacities, availability of emergency exits, etc.
9. Patrolling law enforcement officers: Police officers are often present at large events and festivals to assist with maintaining safety and security as well as enforcing laws if necessary.
10.Continuous monitoring: Organizers continuously monitor the event space to identify any potential safety concerns or hazards and take appropriate action to address them.