Don’t miss this week’s four excellent events that are fun for the whole family. E-mail newsletter@beijing-kids.com to get each issue sent to your inbox. Check the beijingkids website for full event listings, www.beijing-kids.com.
Thurs 24: Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 
With your Christmas presents wrapped, fridges jammed and stockings hanging on the mantelpiece, why not join in with the Candlelight Service at the River of Grace Church. Expect a hearty sing-along in a faithful setting, while building friendships with new families. If the glamorous hotel events are not for you, this service will provide an equally entertaining alternative full of Christmas cheer. Free. 7pm. River of Grace Church, Great Hotel (6466 1680, info@theriverofgrace.com)
Don’t Forget: Practice a few carols beforehand so that you are familiar with the words.
Friday 25: Dim Sum Christmas at Huang Ting
No doubt about it – preparing and cooking your own Christmas feast for the family to enjoy is a truly rewarding occasion, but is it worth the stress and sweat involved? If you think not, throw away tradition and do something different this Christmas. Pull crackers, don your Christmas hat and treat the family to an overwhelming dim sum buffet at Huang Ting. “Cantonese for Christmas,” it has a certain ring to it. RMB 228, RMB 138 (kids under 12). 11.30am-2.30pm. Details at 8516 2888 ext 6691, diningpbj@peninsula.com. The Peninsula Beijing.
Don’t Forget: Kids can help themselves to free-slowing smoothies and juices.
Saturday 26: Beijing Hiker’s – Jiankou to 
Mutianyu and Xmas BBQ
Mutianyu and Xmas BBQ Yes, Christmas is an opportunity to indulge, but if you are feeling a little guilty about making that last trip to the buffet cart or pouring that final glass of wine, then head to the hills with Beijing Hiker’s to walk away the Christmas blues. Jiankou to Mutianyu is considered one of the more picturesque walks available, creating some great chances to capture the Great Wall covered in a blanket of snow. Get your breath back and fuel your appetite while indulging in the Beijing Hiker’s Xmas BBQ, due to be held in a Mutianyu restaurant. RMB 350. Bus leaves from Lido Starbucks at 8:30am. For details, call 5137 4906, or email info@beijinghikers.com
Don’t Forget: Hiking boots are necessary as there may be snow on the ground.
Sunday 27: FIZZtastic Champagne Brunch
Round off the Christmas weekend in ultimate luxury. The Hilton Wangfujing will be hosting their famous Sunday brunch, showcasing an array of international and local cuisines. Get festive and enjoy free-flowing Taittinger Champagne. Team up with other families or come alone, either way you will have a fantastic afternoon. RMB 368+15%. 11.30am-3pm. Hilton Wangfujing (5812 8888 ext 8411).
Don’t Forget: Kids’ can help themselves to their own buffet and watch movies in the “Kidz Paradise” play area.
