What's Up Shenzhen | Weekend Edition
Shenzhen's summer calendar is in full swing. This weekend brings one last chance to explore a major coffee festival in Futian, while three longer-running picks give you plenty of options for the weeks ahead. Here is what is worth adding to your calendar.
1. CAFEEX Shenzhen 2026
CAFEEX深圳2026
Photo: CAFEEX / event organizer
Coffee is only the beginning. CAFEEX brings specialty roasters, brewing equipment and coffee professionals together with the CHOCEX chocolate expo and Whisky Times Shenzhen. Visitors can explore beans from different origins, compare brewing gear, join cupping sessions and catch the HARIO V60 China Brewers Cup.
Dates: July 24-26, 2026
Hours: 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; last entry at 6 p.m.
Venue: Hall 2, Shenzhen Convention and Exhibition Center, Futian
Metro: Line 1 or 4 to Convention and Exhibition Center Station, Exit D
Tickets: WeChat mini program “CafeexMall”
Local tip: Some partner coffee shops have complimentary tickets. If you see a CAFEEX poster at a cafe, ask the barista whether free tickets are still available.
2. Window of the World Summer Carnival
世界之窗2026夏日欢乐季
Photo: Shenzhen Municipal Culture, Radio, Television, Tourism and Sports Bureau
Window of the World is leaning into summer with live music, performances, beer-themed experiences, interactive technology and after-dark entertainment. The program feels more like an immersive summer festival than a traditional sightseeing visit, making it a good pick for visitors, couples and groups of friends.
Dates: Through August 30, 2026
Venue: Window of the World, Nanshan District
Best for: Evening entertainment and first-time Shenzhen visitors
3. Splendid China Summer Water Festival
锦绣中华2026夏浪民族狂欢节
Photo: Shenzhen Municipal Culture, Radio, Television, Tourism and Sports Bureau
Beat the heat with water-splashing celebrations, ethnic cultural performances, AI-powered interactive experiences and nighttime activities. The festival runs throughout the summer and is an especially easy choice for families looking for an energetic full-day outing.
Dates: Through August 31, 2026
Venue: Splendid China Folk Village, Nanshan District
Best for: Families, groups and hot summer afternoons
4. Tintin, the Smurfs and 100 Years of Belgian Comics
气泡王国——比利时国宝漫画百年巡礼
Photo: Event organizer
This free exhibition brings together more than 100 rare pieces from nine classic Belgian comic series, including Tintin and the Smurfs. It is part pop-culture nostalgia, part introduction to a century of European comic art, with enough visual appeal to work for both adults and children.
Dates: Through September 19, 2026
Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; last entry at 5:30 p.m.
Venue: Hall B, 3/F, Guangming Culture and Art Center
Metro: Line 6 or 13 to Fenghuang Town Station, Exit F
Admission: Free
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Event details may change. Check the organizer's latest notice before traveling.