My eight-year-old nephew is obsessed with Paddington Bear, and no matter how many times we’ve watched the movies, for him, it’s never enough. Now the cute little bear from Peru has made his way to Beijing, big brown suitcase and all.

The Peninsula Beijing’s latest afternoon tea is perfect for kids, perhaps more so than for grown-ups. The hotel has put together an afternoon tea, a little photography setup, and some hands-on activities for kids.

While you have a fancy afternoon with your kids over chocolate hazelnut brownie shaped like a piece of luggage, orange and yoghurt cheesecake with a tiny paw print on top, and Victoria sponge finished with a chocolate parasol, all made to look like elements from Paddington’s adventures.

On the savoury side, there’s Mrs. Brown’s Traditional Beef Pie, a Coronation Chicken Wrap, orange-marinated salmon with English muffin and crab roe, and a spiced bread with pumpkin, apple, cinnamon, and berry glaze.

The tea set goes for RMB 588 for two people. If someone wants the Paddington Marmalade Fizz Mug or a Red Chocolate Flight, those cost extra RMB 98 and RMB 280, respectively.

There’s also a small atelier space set up in The Lobby. It’s split into two areas where people can take photos to remember their experience.

One corner looks like the front door at 32 Windsor Gardens, complete with wisteria. Another, just like Paddington’s bedroom, where he keeps his blue coat and whatever treasures he’s hidden away. It’s not trying to be anything more than a place for families to snap a few pictures.

Later, starting May 9, they’ll also start offering Paddington-themed kids’ activities for RMB 680 per child. The pastry team will help children make their own marmalade sandwiches while playing games.

It’s best to call in advance if you plan on taking the kids for an afternoon of Paddington-themed fun.
Tel: +86 10 8516 2888 ext. 6759

Find it:
The Lobby (The Peninsula Beijing) 大堂茶座
8 Jinyu Hutong, Dongcheng District
东城区金鱼胡同8号王府半岛酒店

Last October at Langyuan Station, “Roundabout Pop-Up Store” (众爱循环快闪店) quietly opened its doors. Donated clothes, bags, and little treasures without owners all found a second life and new homes.

The wait is over. The second Roundabout Pop-Up is here, and this time, it’s landing in Beijing’s creative heart: Xidian Memory Funstown.

Find it:
Roundabout Pop-Up Store · Xidian Memory Station
April 17 – April 26 from 10 AM – 8 PM daily
Building D6, Black Sugar Plaza, Xidian Memory Funstown, Chaoyang District

At a time when fast fashion and overconsumption dominate, the Roundabout Pop-Up invites you to slow down. Every item here is hand-picked for quality, character, and quiet charm. You won’t find random clutter. Instead, you’ll find curated second-hand goods from clothing, bags, accessories, home decor, and more, all in good to excellent condition. You’ll discover rare gems at scarcity prices: limited-edition pieces, one-of-a-kind finds, and vintage surprises that won’t break the bank. And above all, you’ll experience the satisfaction that what you no longer need becomes someone else’s treasure.

Let’s be honest: sustainability can feel abstract. But holding a well-made jacket from last season, or discovering a leather bag with its own story, that’s personal. The pop-up is small by design, but big in spirit. It’s not about shopping more. It’s about choosing differently. Reducing waste.

Stop by Xidian Memory Funstown from April 17 to April 26 between 10 am and 8 pm to see what you can discover. Come alone, bring a friend, or drag your whole family. No pressure to buy. You might leave with something unexpected.

Want to give Roundabout a hand? They’re looking for more volunteers!

There’s a particular kind of magic that happens when you take a child to an exhibition that was clearly made with them in mind. You watch their usual restless energy settle into focus, wonder, that quiet hum of engagement that every parent recognizes as a small victory. The Love Monster: Spring Reverie of Love exhibition, running now at Li Gallery in Beijing’s 798 Art District, offers just that.

If you’ve been looking for something to do with your kids that feels a little more thoughtful than the usual weekend rotation, this one is worth the trip.

From the moment you walk into Li Gallery, your children will find themselves surrounded by the world of Love Monster. Instead of cold white walls and roped-off installations, the space has been transformed into something warm and inviting.

What makes this exhibition particularly successful for families is its pacing. It’s not so large that kids become overwhelmed or exhausted halfway through, but it’s substantial enough to feel like a proper outing. You’ll probably spend about 45 minutes to an hour inside, which for most young children is the sweet spot between “engaged” and “over it.”

And the best part, the entire exhibition is completely FREE!

Find it:
Li Gallery 骊画廊
Middle 2nd Street, 798 Art Zone
No. 2 Jiuxianqiao Road, Chaoyang District
北京市朝阳区酒仙桥路2号
798艺术区中二街

Images: Toni Ma

For families in Beijing, finding a welcoming and low-pressure environment for toddlers can feel like a treasure hunt. For Rebecca Carter, a British mom with two boys, ages three and 18 months old, in Beijing, that treasure is found at British School of Beijing (BSB) Sanlitun—even though it’s an hour-long taxi ride from her home.

We spoke with Rebecca to find out why the BSB Sanlitun playgroup has become a non-negotiable part of her weekly routine.

Rebecca’s journey with BSB began last year during a special summer playgroup session. At the time, she brought both of her sons, then 2.5 years old and 9 months old. While her oldest has since started at a local kindergarten, her youngest has become a regular attendee. “We attend most weeks,” Rebecca shares.

So, what keeps them coming back? According to Rebecca, it’s the perfect blend of structure and freedom. “It’s very fun,” she says. “It’s such a relaxed atmosphere, and there’s a lot for the kids to do.” Each week, the playgroup offers a variety of activities designed to engage little ones. “Each week they put out a different messy play for the kids to enjoy, and there’s always blocks, soft play, books, and mini cars for them to zip around on.”

And the best part, it’s free!

For Rebecca’s youngest son, the routine is clear: “He always makes a beeline for the messy play corner. Then he goes and climbs all over the soft play area. He also loves the trampolines, the little cars, and the basketball area.” After about an hour of burning off that energy, the pair settles down for a snack and a drink, which gives Rebecca a chance to chat and make friends.

Living in Haidian, Rebecca admits the commute isn’t trivial. However, she believes BSB Sanlitun offers one of the best activities for families in Beijing. “I’ve watched my youngest grow and gain confidence. At first, he clung to me and needed me to go where he went. Now he roams freely, checking in occasionally.”

The community is another major draw.

The group evolves as children grow and move on to daycare, Rebecca says the core remains welcoming. “The same people tend to go each week, so generally you see the same faces, and everyone is friendly.” That sense of community recently extended beyond the playgroup. When the session was cancelled for one week, one of the mums organized a group outing to a different soft play center. For Rebecca, who lives in an area with few foreign parents, the opportunity for English-speaking “mum talk” is invaluable.

She also appreciates the school’s respectful approach. “Obviously, we were asked if we wanted to join the school (we do), but when I told them we lived too far away and couldn’t, there was no pressure put on us, and we weren’t asked again.”

If you are considering attending, Rebecca says you can expect a diverse and welcoming crowd. “A mix! There are Chinese families, but also a wide range of European and North American families. Kids’ ages range from about eight months to three years, so your child will surely find a play friend.”

Rebecca is already looking forward to the summer, and she has her eye on a new attraction. “I’m extremely excited to see the new pool opening in the summer and perhaps take my son swimming.” She has also heard great things about other offerings at the school. “I have also heard that the Baby Dance and Book Club are great as well from other mums who live locally.”

Her advice to other parents is simple. It doesn’t matter if you’re a bit shy or if you’re nervous about playdates. “I would absolutely recommend joining! I hope to see others at BSB soon. Please come and say hi if you join!”

Images: British School of Beijing Sanlitun

If your family’s idea of a perfect day out involves tasty food, sunshine, and plenty of space for little legs to run around, then mark your calendars: Juicy Burger Fest is rolling into Beijing from May 1-4 at Chaoyang Park, and this year’s edition is bigger, bolder, and more family-friendly than ever.

The burgers are the star of the show (think juicy patties, creative toppings, and buns that hold it all together), but there’s so much more for families to enjoy. Set against a fun Wild West theme, the festival will have a line-up of Beijing’s best burger joints, plus out-of-town guests that you can only get a taste of at the fest.

Best of all? Entry is free!

Want to make a day of it? Treat the kids (and yourself) to a VIP package that includes a cowboy hat, bandana, and 10% off all food and drinks – perfect for getting into the spirit.

Expect plenty of space to spread out, a lively but relaxed atmosphere, and food that’ll satisfy even the pickiest little eaters. Whether you’re a burger purist or love trying something new, this is a festival the whole family can sink their teeth into.

Calling All Vendors:

Got a standout burger joint or a signature creation you want the city to taste? Vendor applications for Juicy Burger Fest Beijing are now open! Just scan the QR code in the poster below to get in contact with us.

Find it:
Juicy Burger Fest 2026
May 1- 4 at Chaoyang Park

Images: The Beijingers

As a parent, finding an activity that checks all the boxes of being safe, engaging, physically active, and actually fun for both kids and adults isn’t as easy to come by as one might think. Sure, the indoor playgrounds are fun for the kids, but how many adults can honestly say that they’re genuinely having a good time in there? There’s a reason why so many of them put massage chairs in there now…

SURFPARK 温泉冲浪·深水冲浪体验店 in Chaoyang is a bit of a different story. Rated #1 on the Chaoyang District Sports Venues list with a stellar 4.9 score on Dianping, this place isn’t just a trendy spot for young adults; it is a fantastic destination for families looking to make a splash any time of the year.

The first concern for any parent is safety. The idea of indoor surfing might sound intimidating for a child, but SURFPARK has mastered the art of the introduction. They offer zero-entry, 1-on-1 guidance that’s suitable for beginners.

Here, while the surfing pool is exhilarating, the facility is designed for comfort. The fact that it’s an indoor facility means you don’t have to worry about Beijing’s unpredictable weather or air quality. The inclusion of free showers and the warm spring amenities mean you can make a full afternoon of it without the usual post-swim scramble to warm up a shivering child.

SURFPARK is located in a cultural and creative industrial park, with ample space and well-maintained plastic flooring to prevent slips. Whether you have a teenager looking for an adrenaline rush or a younger child eager to try something new, this place adapts to your needs. They even offer free sliding experience tickets if you want to test the waters before committing to a full lesson.

If you are tired of the same old trampoline parks, SURFPARK is a breath of fresh air. Watch your kids build confidence, get some exercise as a family, and leave with huge smiles all while staying warm and dry when you’re not in the water.

Find it:
Opening Hours: 1-9PM daily
Building A, Chenyuan Cultural and Creative Industrial Park, 9 Jia, Shuangqiao Middle Road, Chaoyang District
朝阳区双桥中路甲9号院辰园文化创意产业园

Looking for more cool things to do with the family? Join our Family Friendly Events group on WeChat. Add Wilhelmina87 to join.

Images: Dianping

If you’re a parent in Beijing, you already know that Easter can sneak up on you. One minute you’re enjoying the last of the spring chill, and the next, you’re frantically searching for somewhere that has an egg hunt and maybe a decent cup of coffee for you. That’s where theBeijinger’s events section comes in. It’s honestly the best friend a busy parent can have during the holiday season.

Check out the Easter section to find any and all Easter-related events coming up in Beijing.

Happy hunting!

Images: Jingkids, FreePik

Haidian is a bit of a drive, but there are some amazing hidden gems. Inside the Zhongguancun ARTPARK Day City (Dashongcheng), a unique fitness phenomenon is taking flight. Leap-x Bungee isn’t your typical gym or dance studio. With a mission to prove that happiness has no ceiling, this venue has soared to the top of the charts.

At first glance, the concept of indoor bungee might seem intimidating. It involves being harnessed to bungee cords attached to the ceiling, allowing for low-impact, high-intensity movements that make you feel like you’re flying. However, Leap-x has masterfully softened the edge of this intense workout by creating a welcoming space for all ages. The facility isn’t just for elite athletes or adults looking to break a sweat; it is quickly becoming a hotspot for family bonding.

The studio offers standard newcomer classes for adults for RMB 99, but the real magic for families lies in the specialized youth and parent-child offerings. The studio offers “Baby Flight” small group class that’s quickly becoming a regular favorite. For RMB128, this class is specifically designed for younger children, focusing on fun, zero-based introductory movements that build confidence and strength in a safe, guided environment.

It’s a far cry from the usual weekend routine of movies or lunch.

These classes are meant for beginners, which means you don’t need to be a gymnast or a fitness guru to strap in. While it looks like a wild ride, the bungee cord actually absorbs impact, making it easier on growing joints and adult knees while providing incredible cardio and core strengthening. In a city filled with standard playgrounds and trampoline parks, indoor bungee offers something novel. It’s an activity that feels like a thrill ride but has the benefits of a structured exercise class.

Find it:
Zhongguancun ARTPARK Day City, West District, 1st Floor, B-L1-10, Haidian District
海淀区中关村ARTPARK大融城西区1楼B-L1-10号

Images: Dianping

In 2023, Western Academy of Beijing (WAB) organized its first KM for Love, which they called Peachy Charity Run & Brunch and raised RMB 28,068 for then-5-year-old orphan Ping, who suffers from a rare genetic skin disease (epidermolysis bullosa, or EB). Since 2026, WAB has turned this charity run into an annual tradition. 

Sunday, April 12, from 9:00 AM to noon, Western Academy of Beijing (WAB) will once again become a hub of energy, compassion, and community spirit as it hosts the annual KM for Love Run & Brunch. Organized by WAB’s student group KM for LOVE, every bit raised supports Dew Drops and a very special six-year-old named Fei.

Fei is an energetic six-year-old living with Loeys-Dietz syndrome, a rare genetic condition that causes serious heart issues. She is now preparing for her second heart surgery in Beijing, with custom medical parts scheduled to arrive in late March 2026. The surgery will cost approximately RMB 100,000, and this event is a vital part of rallying the community to help make it possible.

You don’t need to be a marathon runner to join. Run & Brunch offers something for everyone. Run or walk at your own pace. The important thing is to come out and support the community together.

Eleventh grader Autumn Cherney has been a part of the KM for Love club for two years and has made many visits to the Dewdrops orphanage. This year, in addition to adding live music to make it more exciting for fellow music lovers, she’s also responsible for finding raffle sponsors. Thanks to amazing local partners like QMex, Slowboat, Las Musas, Pignut, Slider Nation, Hatsune, the Vet Clinic, and Pie Squared, they have gathered some great prizes to help support the cause.

They’re currently looking for student bands to join the lineup and share their talent while supporting this wonderful cause! If you or your students are interested in performing, please reach out to Autumn Cherney at 27autumnc@wab.edu or contact the KM for LOVE team directly.

After the run, refuel with a delicious spread of brunch of fresh fruit, sweet treats, and unlimited pancakes. Bring your family and friends for a feel-good morning of connection and compassion.

Grab your entry tickets via the QR code below and join the fun. Run for love, rally for Fei’s quick healing! Hope to spot you there. Can’t make it? Donate virtually instead!

Find it:
10 Laiguangying Donglu, Chaoyang District
朝阳区来广营东路10号

Images: KM for Love