The best 2010 Expo opening parties

At long last, May 1, the official start of the Shanghai 2010 Expo, is almost upon us. For those who want to celebrate, for those who want to drink and for those who simply want to forget what the next six months hold, there’s a celebration for everyone this long weekend. Here are our top picks for Labor Day, oop we mean, 2010 Expo opening festivities -- and three honorable mentions for good measure.

1. Kathleen's 5's Expo Opening Ceremony

Why it's on this list: Because the Shanghai institution promises to be the peaceful eye in the Expo opening storm, away from the heaving pile of people sure to be on the Bund. You won't miss the festivities though, the Kathleen's 5 crew will set up a 2.5 x 3.5 meter screen on the beautiful outdoor balcony, with a view of People’s Park as a backdrop. Like home, with a larger TV, a nicer terrace and much better service.

Expert opinion: "It should be good and different," says Franck Crouvezier, Kathleen's 5 general manager. "Although we don't have a view of the Bund, it is here that you get a more historical view. You can see the evolution of buildings around here that contributed to Shanghai's skyline. You can still see the festivities, in a more comfortable setting."

Details: Friday, 30 April, Kathleen's 5, 5/F, Shanghai Art Museum, 325 Nanjing Xi Lu, near Huangpi Bei Lu 南京西路325号上海美术馆5楼, 近黄陂北路, RMB 488 (food and drinks), reservations are “a must”

2. SISO's Boat Masquerade Party

Why it's on this list: Because this labor of love from student-driven SISO offers energetic, boozy good times, not to mentioned because they'll be on the river to view the fireworks spectacular (due to Expo security, they can't launch the boat). And if there was a time to do a boat ride down the Huangpu, this would be it -- and you'll never have to leave shore. Add in a free mask, all-you-can drink beer, and an after-party at SIN, and it all screams epic Expo good times.

Expert opinion: "It's about the boat," says Robert Halasz, president of SISO. "It's also about the small details, like the free masks we're going to pass out. It's also about the crowd: we've invited our friends to come over. We've known the DJ for years. We're not professional party promoters, but we love what we do."

Details: Friday, 30 April, 8:30pm, Shiliupu Travel Center, 171 Zhongshan Nan Lu, near Fuxing Dong Lu 中山南路171号, 近 复兴东路, RMB 150 pre-sale, RMB 200 on boat. Pre-sale: Bali Bistro, 75 Wanhangdu Lu, near Beijing Xi Lu 万航渡路75号, 近北京西路

3. Lanting's One Night Only 

Why they're on this list: Call it the anti-Expo opening. It doesn't get much more local or nostalgic than Lanting's return to the stage after their disbandment in 2005, but they’re still sure to return to their lyrical rock edge. Known for their catchy choruses and sharp hooks, we delight at the possibility of a Shanghainese sing-a-long. It should a celebration of talented friends -- with nary a mention of Haibao in sight.

Expert opinion: "Lanting were among the top Shanghai bands of the early 2000s, and they're on stage with an even older-timer, Zhou Zifeng of Iron Orchid from the 1990s, and some young musicians," explains Lisa Movius of SOMA records. "Several of the Lanting members have joined other leading local bands, and all of the guys have stayed pretty active in the scene, so it will be a big emotional love-in of a concert -- a reunion of not just the band, but a lot of old friends. Anyone interested in the background of Shanghai rock, and how the current scene evolved, should totally come hang out."

Details: Friday, 30 April, 8:30, Mao Livehouse, RMB 80 pre-sale, RMB100 at the door

2010 Expo party honorable mentions

What: Lupu Bridge Street Party; cost: free
Why it’s on this list: Well, if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em. The city and its many, many visitors will flock to this bridge for the best free view in town of the Expo opening fireworks. While you may have to contend with a few elbows and collisions, we predict that the air will be congenial; bring your own popcorn, and get the full interactive atmosphere of a genuine Chinese celebration. 

What: John Digweed, M2; cost: RMB 120 pre-sale, RMB 200 at door
Why it's on this list: Also known as Bedrock, John Digweed is a genuine British institution and frequent Shanghai guest, playing dance-worthy progressive rock -- heard in everything from London clubs to the Trainspotting soundtrack. Even if you’ve heard him before, he usually guarantees party bliss, in case you want your personal enjoyment of the Expo Opening to be through dance.

What: Barbarossa's fifth anniversary bash; cost: free
Why it's on this list: This three-floor People's Park locale, like Kathleen's 5, is another good alternative to Bund festivities, this time enhanced by "sexy belly dancers," Middle Eastern music, and Barbarossa's newly renovated terrace. We're going to call this party an exercise in people watching and make it a drinking game: a sip for every exposed belly, and double that for an exposed belly in desperate need of a tan. The free anniversary shots offered by Barbarossa staff will certainly aid our cause.