1.Trick-or-Treat at the beijingkids Halloween Costume Brunch Ball
Looking at a dull Halloween? Have no fear, beijingkids’ Halloween Costume Brunch Ball is here! Our most popular event of the year is bigger and better than ever, with three separate parties taking place on October 27 and 28 from 10.30am to 2pm – including our first-ever teen edition. Activities include pumpkin carving, face painting, free photo portraits, trick-or-treating, gift bags, and more. Check out Top 5 Places for Halloween Costumes for some inspiration. See Oct 27 listing in Events for details.
2. Hear Dr. Jane Goodall Speak
This year, there will be not one, but two opportunities to hear world-famous conservationist, primatologist, Roots and Shoots founder, and UN Messenger of Peace Dr. Jane Goodall speak. On November 3, there will be a gala evening in her honor at the Hilton Beijing. Tickets cost RMB 1,000 and can be booked by calling 6778 3155 or emailing info@jgichina.org. On November 7, Dr. Goodall will appear at Western Academy of Beijing as part of the school’s Distinguished Speaker Series. The talk is free, but spaces are very limited. Reserve your spot now by emailing ecai@wab.edu.
3.Show Your Support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so remember to “think pink.” Host your own “pink day” to raise money for charity by organizing a pink-themed party with friends and family. In addition, Beijing 21st Century Hospital is offering special promotions for women from October 8 to November 15. Mammograms and breast ultrasounds will cost RMB 650 each (original price: RMB 1,850 and RMB 1,000 respectively). To find out more, call 8444 6158.
4.Pick Up a Pumpkin (or Two) at Sanyuanli Market
What’s October without a big, fat pumpkin? Whether you plan to carve, cook, or just keep them around for decoration, these orange beauties are available at Sanyuanli Market. Bring lots of reusable bags, draw up a shopping list, and make a day out of it!
Daily 5am-7pm. Sanyuanli Market, Shunyuan Jie (opposite Jingkelong Supermarket), Chaoyang District 三源里市场,朝阳区顺源街(京客隆超市对面)
5. Play in a Park
As autumn sets in, spend the day walking around Ritan Park (日坛公园). There’s a small fishing pond, an outdoor rock climbing wall, and a children’s playground. It’s easy to find a nook or cranny to have a picnic; if you don’t bring your own food, there’s always Xiao Wang Fu (near the North Gate) and Stone Boat Cafe (by the lake, on the southwest corner of the park).
6.Watch the Leaves Change at Baiwang Shan
It’s easy to forget the simple wonders of nature when you live in the city. Xiang Shan (or Fragrant Hills) in northwestern Beijing is the traditional spot to see fall foliage, but we recommend eschewing the crowds for a foray to a lesser-known neighboring mountain called Baiwang Shan (lit. “the mountain of one hundred hopes”).
7. Try Out a New Brunch Spot
Check out the newly-opened Wagas at Sanlitun Village, which offers classics like breakfast, sandwiches, and salads in a casual environment. There’s also TreeHouse Cafe and Playground at Sanlitun SOHO, which offers organic and gluten-free options in a kid-centered environment. In Shunyi, families can enjoy Switch! Cafe’s extensive kids’ menu, play areas, and outdoor terrace. For a review of Switch! Cafe (pictured here), see Dining Out (p21).
8. Join a Group Hike
October in Beijing is one of the loveliest times of the year. Take advantage of the blue skies and mild weather by joining a group hike around the city. Groups include Dandelion Hiking (www.chinahiking.cn), Beijing Hikers (www.beijinghikers.com), and China Travellers (www.chinatravellers.com).
9. Spend the Day in Dongsi
Feeling up for a little cultural adventure? Head to the Dongsi area for a healthy dose of old Beijing. Discover the National Art Museum of China, Longfusi Snack Street, unassuming hutongs, authentic restaurants, and more. Turn to What’s Fun In (p34) to get started.
10. Saddle Up and Hit the Road
October is also one of the best months to embark on a weekend cycling trip with the family. Chart your own path through Tsinghua University campus in Haidian, Baixinzhuang Village in Shunyi, or the area around Beihai Park in central Beijing. Alternatively, join a cycling group with Cycle China (www.cyclechina.com), Bicycle Kingdom (www.bicyclekingdom.com), or Chihaner (www.chihaner.com).