5 fun things to do in Shanghai in November 2024, including Expo Culture Park’s new feature

From a jazz festival and the Shanghai Greenhouse to art exhibitions and Marina Abramovic’s new showcase, there’s lots to enjoy this month

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American jazz singer Dianne Reeves is one of many famous international artists who will perform at the 2024 JZ Festival in Shanghai, China, in November. Photo: JZ Festival Shanghai

Published: 12:45pm, 5 Nov 2024

Shanghai is at its best in November, when the temperature averages 17 degrees Celsius (63 degrees Fahrenheit) and the humidity is low. November is also when the city’s largest annual trade fair, the China International Import Expo, is held, which attracts visitors from all around the world.

Here are five other reasons to visit the city this November.

1. JZ Festival

China’s biggest jazz festival is back for its 20th-anniversary edition with a line-up that is larger than ever.

A star-studded opening night on November 4 featured 78 local and visiting musicians and is being followed by a week of evening performances with artists including the legendary saxophonist Charles Lloyd, veteran composer Dave Grusin, five-time Grammy-winning jazz singer Dianne Reeves, and China’s own queen of soul Tia Ray.

The weeklong extravaganza is being held at the 2,500-seat Grand Theatre at the New Bund 31 Performing Arts Centre, designed by London’s Theatre Projects.

While a move indoors signifies a shift in the festival’s format, interest remains high, with many programmes selling out fast. Ticket prices range from 280 yuan to 1,280 yuan (US$39 to US$180).