A shopping center in Hangzhou. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

As the May Day holiday approaches, Hangzhou is offering a variety of festive options — from music and markets to sports and tech — to help people make the most of their time off.

Highlights include the first Zhejiang (Hangzhou) International Fashion Sports Week, featuring sports-fashion fusion events and 3 million yuan ($413,043) in consumption vouchers. The 2025 Dreamland AI Robot Playground (April 29 – May 5) at Wulin Expo Center brings together over 120 robots and drones across seven themed zones for a futuristic tech experience.

The Deshou Palace Live Music Season will transform the Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279) imperial site into a day-to-night concert venue, while the Qinghefang Market Festival (April 30–May 5) blends handmade crafts, tea culture, music, and film under the stars.

Anime fans can head to the 6th Jingshan Mountain Flower Sea Carnival (May 1–3) for cosplay, performances, and interactive shows. Meanwhile, outdoor lovers can join the Linglong Hiking Challenge (May 1–5), a scenic trek through west Lin’an with rewards for completion.

For a peaceful break, West Lake offers upgraded rowing and sculling boat services, with new systems and dock arrangements in place to enhance holiday travel.

From immersive cultural experiences to digital innovation and natural escapes, Hangzhou offers something for everyone this May Day.

A bird's-eye view of the flower sea at Jingshan Mountain. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]