Titled “Gratitude is Happiness Doubled by Wonder,” the Wonder Ball is a dance charity event organized by the Conservatory of International Style and Cultural Arts (CISCA) and Tian Art Foundation. After a three-year hiatus, this year’s event is all about showing appreciation to the supporters who have helped both organizations to continue their work throughout the pandemic and beyond.

“We are so grateful to be able to have dance as a medium to connect all of us from different walks of life. This year’s Wonder Ball is our way of giving thanks to our partners and patrons,” says Founder of CISCA and Tian Art Foundation, Flora Zeta Cheong-Leen, in a phone interview with jingkids.

Flora has had quite the journey, from dancer – as the first person of Asian descent to join the ranks of the Royal Academy of Ballet (RAD) – to actress to celebrated fashion designer to founder of CISCA – a dance school with over five branches and links to various international schools across Shanghai and Beijing – where she continues to teach ballet on a daily basis.

CISCA organizes the Wonder Ball to offer a unique opportunity for students to get an unforgettable stage experience, enhance technical skills, develop expressive and cognitive abilities, build up their self-confidence, and learn to work as a team. At the same time, it aims to raise funds to stimulate and support highly talented, but under-privileged children in their development within the performing arts through Tian Art Foundation and to benefit the Starlight Benefit Autism Art Therapy Public Welfare Project, founded by the Autistic Children Rescue Fund of the China Social Welfare Foundation.

The Wonder Ball this year will see CISCA students as young as 6 years old all the way to the adults of the professional dance company, twirl their way into our hearts. The mix of international and local performers demonstrates Flora’s keen belief that dance is a universal language that unites all who partake in it.

Would you like to be a proud sponsor at the Wonder Ball 2023? They are seeking sponsorship for relevant resources for the event. In return for your kind sponsorship, you will receive one full-page or half-page color complimentary advertisement or credit acknowledgment in the ball program for the evening and acknowledgments on the CISCA official WeChat. Contact flora@cisca.com.cn or manager Becky Lam at becky@cisca.com.cn for more information.

Jingkids is proud to partner with CISCA at the Wonder Ball 2023. Jingkids is part of True Run Media. Founded in 2001, True Run Media is a media, events, and advertising company that helps the local and international communities get the most out of life in China. Our flagship brands include the Beijinger (available in both English and Chinese), and Jingkids (in Beijing and Shanghai). We serve both Chinese and international communities, helping them harness the best of China. Our diverse brands cover a wide range of audiences, from millennials looking for leisure activities to parents looking for family-friendly entertainment or good schools. Through our social media channels, community events, websites, and print magazines, we reach over 100,000 people each month. For businesses, we provide a way to connect with both local and international consumers, aiding organizations of every size to grow and thrive in China.

KEEP READING: Clowning for a Cause: Let’s Spread Cheer for These Kids

Images: Courtesy of CISCA

Last month, Beijing Women’s Network (BWN) hosted its first Healthy Living Series event in conjunction with MAMONAHI to raise funds for Helping & Advocating for Village’s Education (HAVE). Since its founding two years ago, HAVE Library has built five libraries and provided reading services and educational activities for hundreds of children in rural China.

The Move For a Change event, held at MAMONAHI Studio, was attended by over a dozen women who were drawn to the event’s offerings of theatre dance, flamenco, and hatha yoga. There was also a lively networking session for participants to mix and mingle. After covering costs, the event raised RMB 1,700 for HAVE.

But the work, as well as the fun, doesn’t stop there! Eager to keep up the momentum from last month’s event, BWN is proud to present Dance to Build Libraries. On Aug 1, gather together at a cosy, private venue near Guanghua SOHO and get ready to groove with three of Beijing’s most dynamic dance fitness instructors, including yours truly. We’ll take you through 90 minutes of fun-filled dancing and sweating. Then, after we’ve sweat it all out, we’ll enjoy a light brunch while we get to know each other.

Here’s the activity line-up:

• 9.45-10am: Registration
• 10-10.30am: Jazzercise with Vivienne Tseng-Rush – The original US dance party workout, Jazzercise is a pulse-pounding, beat-pumping, body-blasting fitness program that fuses cardio, strength, pilates, hip-hop, yoga, and kickboxing.
• 10.30-11am: Fitness with Diva – A unique, fun, and engaging workout program set to some of the latest hits.
• 11-11.30am Dance Fusion with Alessia Chizzoniti – Groove with this energetic former professional dancer-of-all-trades and her fun dance team.
• 11.30am-12.30pm Light brunch and networking

Get your tickets here:

BWN is a community seeking to connect women with available resources and help them in their journeys of professional and personal growth. Their network currently spans over 5,000 women and nine active WeChat groups. You can join them by adding Leslie on WeChat: Ledo3454.

KEEP READING: Let’s Get Physical! Dance Your Way to a Fitter You This Summer

Images: Jazzercise Inc, Fitness With Diva

It all started in 2016 after I saw a Latin dance competition. It was the beginning of my Latin dancer dream, and that dream would linger for few years to come.

When the competition ended, I started to wish that I would become an award-winning dancer, with medals and trophies of my own. I sank into a daydream, that one day, I too would be wearing a shiny dress, holding lots of medals and trophies that I’d won. But first, I needed training and that dream became my target. But how do I start?

When I asked my mother about it, she laughed and thought that my head was still in the stadium. The whole world seemed to laugh at me, but I didn’t give up. I kept on asking and after about a week she finally realized that I was serious about taking up Latin dancing. She helped me by researching dance studios and finally, we settled on classes at Yulin Latin.

The first time I walked into the dance studio, there was music everywhere and the classrooms were filled with children dancing. Dancing in their fancy dresses like butterflies, I admired and was desperate to be like them. I recognized some of them from the dance competition. They were like swans and angels to me, turning beautifully in the stadium. I met my two teachers – Yulin Li who also happened to be the owner of the studio and Lin, whose job was to correct my mistakes. I didn’t feel like they were teachers. They felt more like friends to me.

The classes were hard but I enjoyed every moment of it. When it came time for my first competition, I was nervous but I knew how important it was to me and I overcame it. When the music came on I danced with all my strength and did everything my teachers had taught me.

But this isn’t a fairy tale story. I didn’t leave the competition with a first place medal. In fact, I got a terrible score that time. Afterwards, I stayed in my room in tears for the rest of the day. My mother comforted me and asked if I still wanted to continue. Fortunately, I didn’t give up. It was a learning experience for me. I trained harder and got better.

By 2019 I had entered my second competition with the encouragement of my friends, family, and teachers. I won 6th place – and places 1 – 6 got trophies. I was ecstatic! Over the next few years I trained even harder and finally I was able to get a first-place trophy.

My time at Yulin Latin gave me freedom and it was like a paradise for me – an unforgettable memory. It taught me life lessons and helped me succeed.

For my peers looking for a new hobby, join me for a dance.

Yulin Latin 北京玉林拉丁学校
Multiple locations in Beijing, Tianjin, and Langfang.
Ph: 158 0105 5020
WeChat ID: 309103315

This article is part of jingkids’ student correspondent program. If you’d like to get involved, please contact editor@beijing-kids.com

KEEP READING: Dance Your Way to A Healthier Pregnancy with ‘Fit Bump’!

Images: Pexels

Those who have been pregnant will let you know that not everyone has a picture-perfect pregnancy experience. Moms who have been pregnant multiple times will also tell you, no one pregnancy is the same as the next. With each comes new concerns, restrictions, and physical adaptations as the body adjusts to each pregnancy. There is also the doctor’s advice, which is as varied as are pregnancies in the world. But for the most part, the most generic tried and true advice for pregnancy is to eat healthily, remain active, stay hydrated, and go for all your checkups.

The remaining active bit is however vague for most as it means anything from walking across the room for some moms-to-be to lifting weights and running a few miles a day for others. So what happens when you feel up to doing more than looking for the TV remote in your living-room but not quite up to pumping iron at the gym? Dance might be a good alternative. Mom of 3 and Zumba enthusiast Alessia Chizzoniti would know a thing or two about dancing your way to a healthier pregnancy as she, along with other Beijing moms, gets ready to host Fit Bumps – From One Mom to Another. Beijingkids spoke to her on dancing and pregnancy, what to expect, and what the benefits you should get might be.

Alessia Chizzoniti

BJK: How safe is dancing for women who are in different trimesters of pregnancy?

Alessia: Dancing is very safe and is actually recommended for pregnant ladies, no matter the trimester. Dancing is a fun and gentle exercise that everyone can enjoy. This is the perfect time to connect with your body and your baby through movement and awareness. You have primal and powerful birth instincts within you, awaiting activation. You’ll be surprised at the numerous benefits for your pregnancy, your birth, your baby, and your postpartum recovery. I always remind moms to listen to their bodies and inform me of any little change or discomfort they may have experienced, as to adjust the program according to each one’s needs.

BJK: What are some of the direct benefits of dancing through pregnancy as a way to remain fit and active?

Alessia: Through dancing, you become progressively more centered, grounded, agile, strong, and self-assured. Dancing is beneficial in pregnancy to reduce your stress and tension by activating your “feeling brain” instead of your “thinking brain”, anchoring you so pleasurably in the current moment that neither the past nor the future can interfere with the perfection of right now. You’ll find yourself fully experiencing your birth. Another benefit of dancing through pregnancy is that it increases the flow of the “love hormone” Oxytocin which helps you bond with your baby and during birth positively affects the length, strength, and duration of your uterine contractions.

Yet another benefit of dancing is that it correspondingly lowers the “fight or flight hormone” Adrenalin. Another wonderful benefit of dancing is that it gives you confidence in your body and movement, which lowers your stress and allows for increased levels of Oxytocin to shorten labor. Oxytocin triggers your primal birth instincts. Dancing reduces the risk of interventions like forceps, vacuum, and cesarean by correcting fetal mal-position and opening your pelvic outlet wider. It also has been scientifically proven to diminish labor pain and increase birth satisfaction. Last but not least, through dancing gravity will be your alley for a smooth, physiological birth. Furthermore, after labor, the same hormones that help labor, help shrink your uterus back to size in the immediate postpartum period. Dancing throughout your pregnancy gives you and your baby repetitive motions that will be familiar and comforting for your baby, encouraging bonding, and aiding in soothing – a huge benefit for you and your baby.

BJK: How often would this sort of exercise be encouraged for pregnant women?

Dancing for birth classes are usually held once or twice a week, as they incorporate also labor coaching and prenatal education. Dancing in general is encouraged any time any day!

BJK: Let’s get to the meat and potatoes of it! What would this class consist of?

Alessia: Class lasts one hour. We start with a gentle warm-up, to get ready to literally shake our hips! We use organic movements and physiological positions to build up the fun and easy choreographies, and most important we build circuits moms can easily use during labor by themselves or with their partner’s support. We incorporate Dancing for Birth evidence-based Birth Method and signature moves like “Dilation Gyration” in every routine to make the class effective regarding labor preparation and make moms experience the moves, train the body and build “body memory” for the big day. Class is filled with techniques and tips, like how to use gravity for a more effective birth. Did you know there is an optimal fetal position and you can help assure it? We end the class with gentle stretching and some workout for the pelvic floor. We follow up in the group chat, as I usually send info after class about what we just did so that mom can practice by themselves if they wish and build awareness and confidence. The aim is to learn techniques that support your own physiological birth instincts, and increase your confidence for empowered, enjoyable birth (yes, natural birth can be enjoyable!)

BJK: What are some of the safety precautions during the class?

The studio is regularly disinfected, so is the equipment (yoga mats and blocks, seats, etc). Spots are limited to make sure we can keep the safety distance at all times.

BJK: What words of encouragement do you have for pregnant moms who are afraid to get into something as physically involved as dancing during pregnancy?

Alessia: As DFB instructor and doula, I am here to support you literally step by step! Birth can be active, ecstatic, transformative, empowering. With this fun fusion of fitness and education, you’ll be ready! Come along!

KEEP READING: It Costs Nothing to be Kind to Your Delivery Person

Photos: Courtesy of Alessia Chizzoniti 

Ever just get the need to get out of the house, ditch the chores, ditch that proposal you’ve been working on, forget about the kids’ homework and head out dancing? Then you realize it’s three in the afternoon and all of Beijing’s dancing spots won’t be worth going to until right about midnight? Then you remember you haven’t been up past ten in as many years? Well, not this weekend! This weekend, you get to have your dance and your sleep too! Join the Beijing groovers at the Rivera East Lake tennis court for some fun and a whole lot of dancing. And all for a good cause!

The Staying Alive Fundraising Dance Charity Event is brought to us by our favorite Beijing charity shop, the Roundabout. In case you haven’t heard about the Roundabout, all you need to know is it’s an awesome social enterprise headed by volunteers, providing free services and connecting those who wish to help either monetarily or otherwise to those in need. Its also been around since 2008 and over the years it has supported over 48 charitable organizations even as far afield as Inner Mongolia. They also have amazing stores where you can get anything you could possibly imagine, from household items to clothes and everything in between, all for a wonderfully low price.

Take advantage of Beijing’s first few days of deliciously warm summer, and dance the afternoon away. Bring the kids along and enjoy the beautiful tranquillity of Riviera East’s lakeside court at the dance location. Don’t worry if you are undecided as yet. You can always grab your ticket at the Bejing Riviera East reception desk or you can stroll over to the Roundabout, and once you’re done grabbing a few goodies, snag your tickets there. They are only RMB 50. See you all there!

Do you have an upcoming family-friendly event that you want to be included in our listings? Maximize the reach of your event and promote it on beijingkids’ social platforms!

Let us know by leaving your message in the comments section below or by emailing us at webeditor@beijing-kids.com. Follow us on WeChat (ID: beijing-kids) or join our family events WeChat group by sending us your WeChat QR code. Please note that readers should confirm with each organizer if events are canceled or scheduled as planned. For more events that may not be included in this list, please check our Events page. 

Baby Massage Class, Oct 9

Parents and babies 8 weeks to crawling. Blossom and Berry Baby Massage and Yoga Training invites parents and young babies to join them on Wednesdays for a baby massage class. Learn the importance of touch and what massage can do to help your baby’s health. Class only occurs if more than 2-3 people sign up. Please contact Jenny Pena on WeChat for information on when this class takes place and location.

RMB 200. 9.30am. Shine Hills Area in Shunyi.

Dulwich College Beijing Open Day for Senior School, Oct 11

Ages 10 – 17. Dulwich College Beijing (DCB) invites eligible families to tour their facilities, meet their students and staff, and find out about their award-winning education supported by four pillars: academic excellence, creative arts, competitive sports, and service to others. Register at beijing.dulwich.org.

Free. 9am-11.30am. Dulwich College Beijing.

Free. Noon – 6pm. Tech Temple.

The Color Run Beijing, Oct 13

The Color Run is a five-kilometer, untimed event. At each kilometer mark, Color Runners are doused from head to toe in a different colored powder. Participants wear white at the starting line and finish the race plastered in color. Once the race is over, the fun continues at the Finish Festival, a larger-than-life party equipped with music, dancing, photo ops, activity booths, vendors, and more massive color throws, which create millions of vivid color combinations. Visit www.247tickets.com to register.

RMB 208 – 498. 9am-2pm. Beijing Garden Expo Park. 

Best of British Festival 2019, Oct 13

All ages and nationalities. Celebrate all things British at Treasure Trove’s Best of British Festival 2019. Support British business owners at this great festival featuring local British vendors, a calligraphy workshop, a Shaolin kung fu performance, live music, tea and more. Have a lunch of wonderful British food like fish and chips, and burgers and mash. Yum!

Free. 11am – 5pm. The Garden of the Ritz Carlton Beijing Dawanglu.

Unga-Jindafit Charity, Oct 13

All ages.  Unga means “connect” in Swahili, and Unga-Jindafit is a charity and an open air dance-fitness event which has been held in Berlin for four years now. This is the first time Unga-Jindafit is coming to Beijing. They have partnered with Blossom Montessori School, and all collections and proceeds will go to a private charity in Berlin that sends school supplies and clothes to children in Gambia, Africa. People can donate supplies and clothes by bringing them direction to the event or dropping them at Blossom Montessori School.

RMB 100, children are free. 10.30-11.30am. Hulu Taikooli Sanlitun. 

Beijing Improv at The Bookworm, Oct 14

Beijing Improv is China’s oldest improvised theater organization. It has members from all over the world who perform a mix of short and long-form games, scenes, and take audience suggestions to create a hilarious and fun event. Beijing Improv is a non-profit organization and all proceeds are donated to a local charity that benefits migrant children.

RMB 85. 7.30pm. The Bookworm Sunlitun. 

2019 Longines Beijing Masters Horse Competition, Oct 11 – 14

The Bird’s Nest Stadium will be filled with talented riders and beautiful horses this week, as the annual Longines Beijing Masters comes for its ninth year in the capital. Watch as graceful pairs of horses and riders perform in this world-renowned showjumping competition, This event features some of the worlds best riders showing off their equestrian skills; last year 235 horse and rider pairs participated.

RMB 80 – 2400. The National Stadium (The Birds Nest).

NBA Exhibition: Unstoppable Beijing, Now till Oct 13

All ages. Aimed at showcasing the excitement of the game and the rich history of the league, the NBA is launching its touring exhibition in Beijing. By using interactive exhibits, video, and exciting memorabilia, the multi-level experience will showcase the passion of the league, its teams, and players. It will explore the many ways the NBA has evolved since its founding in 1946.

RMB 90. 10 am – 8 pm. Yang Art Museum.

Dynasty of Brick: LEGO Chinese Culture Exhibition, Aug 25 – Oct 14

All ages. There is something new in Beijing for Lego fans – the Lego Chinese Culture Exhibition at Indigo from Aug 25 to Oct 14 promises to show Beijing families the big picture of Chinese culture, using five million Lego bricks.

RMB 79 – 899 (Visit here to buy tickets). Daily 10 am-10 pm. 18 Jiuxianqiao Road, Chaoyang District.

Great Wall Camping | See Sunset and Sunrise from China Wall, every weekend through Oct 20.

Ages depends on ability. Spend two days on the Great Wall, experience the Great Wall at sunset and sunrise, and camp overnight at a Great Wall tower. This camping experience is organized by Cultural Exchange Trips (CET) who will provide camping equipment, transportation, and guides (an English speaking guide and local guide). The hiking portion is relatively easy but there are some steep sections. Please contact CET for more information, and to find out if this trip is right for you and your family.

RMB 365 (Discounts are available for groups). Needs registration. Cultural Exchange Trips. (Jon 185 1420 3469 / Jane: 155 1030 7192).

Yoga in the Park, every Sunday now through Oct 

Moka Bros and Taozi Tree Yoga brings Yoga in the Park 2019. For six years running people have been gathering in Chaoyang Park for a 1.5 hour long class. Advanced yogis and beginners are all welcome to this class, just bring a yoga mat and water. After the yoga class, hangout with the crew at Moka Bros and enjoy 15 percent off your lunch.

RMB 50. 9.30 – 11am. Chaoyang Park. 

Intensive Photography Workshops, Now – October 30

National Geographic is offering intensive workshops for photography. These courses are offered at variety of dates and locations. Each class focuses on different techniques.

Oct 9: Product Shot – 798 Art District
Oct 12: Travel and Street – Hutongs
Oct 15: Basic for Beginners – Sanlitun
Oct 22: Light and Portrait – 798 Art District
Oct 30: Travel and Street – Hutongs

RMB 750. 10am – 1pm. 131 2470 7430. prissbaxter. www.prisscilabaxter.com.

Seasonal Hairy Crab at Park Hyatt Beijing, now – Oct 31

Crowned as the “King of Crabs”, hairy crabs are celebrated for their decadent roe and juicy meat. This autumn, at the peak of its harvest, savor the prized crustaceans prepared in the classic steamed way or in creative presentations. From 23 September 2019 for a limited time only.

From RMB 128. Reservations & Hotel WeChat Shop: parkhyattbeijing. China Grill (8567 1098). Dining Room (8567 1795).

Kayaking on the Most Beautiful River, every Sunday till Nov 18

Talk to the trip adviser to see if this trip is right for your family. Kayak down a beautiful river at Kayak Scenic Area on a Cultural Exchange Trip (CET). Spend the morning kayaking (don’t worry, lessons are included), have lunch, then an afternoon raft swimming and racing! Have an hour of free time to enjoy the scenic area however you want. Price includes round-trip bus, English-speaking guide, and the insurance fee. It does not include a Kayak fee (RMB 130) or raft swimming fee (RMB 30).

RMB 75. 7am. Fangshan district. Trip adviser Sunny 1030 7172 (English & Mandarin).

Children’s Gymnastics at WAB, now to Dec 8

Ages 4+. Flips and Kicks Plus is offering classes for the international community in Beijing. This company provides gymnastics at a variety of locations. Give your child a chance to have fun and learn new skills while developing physical strength, coordination, and building self-esteem. These classes are taught in English.

RMB 1,540 for 11 beginner classes, RMB 1,760 for 11 advanced classes. Classes are offered on Fridays after school and Sunday mornings. Registration needed. Western Academy of Beijing.

New Street Dance Term at WAB, Sept 1 to Dec 12

All ages. Sunshine Studios provides street dance classes where children and adults can learn from one of the biggest dance studios in Europe. Classes are available for a wide range of ages and skill level, including adults, and are led by professionals who have danced with stars like Justin Bieber, Beyonce, and Lady Gaga.

Classes are every Wednesday, Thursday, and weekends at a variety of times. Western Academy of Beijing. 

Karate and Martial Arts Class with Adventure Zone, every Tuesday and Thursday, now through Dec

Ages 4+. Adventure Zone is offering Goju-ryu classes, a traditional Okinawan style of karate that uses techniques executed at close range. Your child can enjoy learning martial arts while strengthening and conditioning their body, gaining confidence, and learning discipline.

RMB 3500 – 3700. Registration needed. 4pm. Kerry Sports Center L3.

Electric Bicycle Tour of Old Beijing, every Wednesday and Sunday

All ages. Interested in seeing Beijing from a different point of view? Join Belectric on a tour of Old Beijing on an ebike. Tour through Old Beijing hutongs while stopping at famous landmarks like the Lama Temple, Drum Tower, Confucius Temple, Houhai Lake, and the Forbidden City. At each stop your guide will share stories about the history and lore behind each famous place.

RMB 400. 1pm – 4pm. Culture Yard. www.belectricbeijing.com. 

Safari Time Songs at The Bookworm, every Saturday

Children 3 months to 4 years. Does your tot love to sing and dance? Does your baby get excited when she hears music? Bring them to the Bookworm for Safari Time Songs! These classes will give your child a chance to learn simple songs from all around the world, have fun, and socialize.

There are two classes available, one for toddlers up to 4 years old from 9.30am–10.30am and one for babies 3-18 months old from 10.30am–11.30am. RMB 80. 9.30am. The Bookworm.

Mental Health Peer Support Group, second and fourth Tuesday of every month

Adults. There are many things that can be challenging in life: moving to a new country, going through a breakup, job loss, living with mental illness, or just the difficulties of this fast-paced modern life. Allow this bi-weekly mental health peer group to help you out. CandleX established an English speaking mental health peer support group in Oct 2015. It provides a safe environment for people living in Beijing to share personal experiences, thoughts, and feelings, through small, confidential gatherings.

50 RMB, free to people with incomes lower than RMB 6,000, needs registration. 7.30pm. U-Town Shopping Center. 

Calligraphy Workshop with Cultural Keys, first Saturday of Every Month. 

Want to explore traditional Chinese culture? Learn something new? Get better at your characters? Then join Cultural Keys for its monthly calligraphy workshop. Learn about the history and culture of this beautiful art form and then try it for yourself. This is a two hour calligraphy class with an experienced calligrapher. You will practice a design and then choose a character to write on decorative paper to bring home. This class includes a dumpling lunch. After lunch walk around and explore the unique Xiaopu Artist Village.

RMB 388. 9am – 6.30pm. Meeting point: Tuanjiehu subway station. (Wechat: AJDonnelly, events@culturalkeys.cn)

Photos: courtesy of event holders, Sara Villaseno

Unga means “connect” in Swahili, and open air dance-fitness event Unga-Jindafit has been held in Berlin for four years now. They connect with local and private charities and individuals coordinating charitable work.

This is the first time Unga-Jindafit has taken place in China. The charity was brought to Beijing by D’Jack, the founder of Unga-Jindafit, in coordination with Alessia Chizzoniti, the founder and director of Blossom Montessori.

On Sunday October 13, Unga-Jindafit invite everyone to the event to support charities by dancing and sharing la joie de vivre, “the joy of life” at Hulu Taikooli Sanlitun .

People can donate supplies and clothes, by either bringing them to the event or dropping them off at Blossom Montessori school (光华路甲9号世贸国际公寓A2号楼2层206. Global Trade Mansion A2-206, GuangHua Lu 9). Children can also come with their parents to enjoy dancing and have fun at the Hulu. Chizzoniti told beijingkids that kids are free of charge, though parents can choose to buy extra tickets to donate to the charity. She especially wants to acknowledge the support of Hulu, who are willing to help without charge for the charity event.

Sara Villasenor, Jindafit Business Manager and Instructor told beijingkids, “This year, for our Beijing Unga-Jindafit collection and proceeds donation we have chosen to work with a private charity in Berlin, ran by one of our partners Diana Harmuth Arwa , which sends two containers of school supplies and clothes for children in The Gambia, Africa. Our partner has been running this program for 15 years and we’re happy to strengthen our network of supporters in order to reach multiple locations.”

Unga-Jindafit October Charity, Oct 13

All ages. RMB 100. 10.30–11.30am. Hulu Taikuli Sanlitun. (Scan the QR code to buy tickets)

Photos: Courtesy of Sara Villasenor

Do you have an upcoming family-friendly event that you want to be included in our listings? Maximize the reach of your event and promote it on beijingkids’ social platforms!

Let us know by leaving your message in the comments section below or by emailing us at webeditor@beijing-kids.com. Follow us on WeChat (ID: beijing-kids) or join our family events WeChat group by sending us your WeChat QR code. Please note that readers should confirm with each organizer if events are canceled or scheduled as planned. For more events that may not be included in this list, please check our Events page. 

Beijing Burger Festival, Jun 22-23

Beijing’s juiciest weekend is back! This year’s festival will be bigger and better than ever, with 15,000 burger fiends scouring 50 booths for the best burgers, booze, and bites as well as two full days of music, entertainment, competitions, as well as the launch of the first ever Best Buns Contest, where contestants will battle it out with nothing else but their brawn and chiseled buns. It will also be the most vegan and vegetarian-friendly festival yet so that you can come and gorge on burgers no matter your dietary persuasion. On top of those veggie options, there’ll be at least 10 new burger vendors that have never attended before. And the children’s area offers games and fun for families. All ages. RMB 20 advance, RMB 60 on the day. 11am-8pm. 2 Nanzhugan Hutong, Chaoyangmennei Dajie, Dongcheng District. www.thebeijinger.com/events/2019/may/beijing-burger-festival-2019. 东城区朝阳门内大街南竹杆胡同2号

The Brickyard: Readings in The Garden, Jun 23

If you’re looking for something different to do on a Sunday afternoon, then the Brickyard’s “Readings in the Garden” is the event for you. Amid the peaceful setting of the Brickyard Inn and Retreat Center by the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, listen to some of Beijing’s finest writers, as they share poetry, fiction, and conversation.

All ages. Free. 1.30-4.30pm. The Brickyard Inn and Retreat Center at Mutianyu Great Wall 瓦厂 – 100m South of Yingbeigou Cun, Huairou District (6162 6506) 怀柔区怀柔区营北沟村南100米 

Beijing Women’s Network Spotlight Dinner, Jun 17

Irene Hong first came to Beijing from the US as a mechanical engineer, and over the course of two decades found herself leading one of China’s leading healthcare banking industry groups. How did she make the transition from being an engineer into banking? How did she manage difficult choices during challenging personal times and male-dominated industries? How does she balance being a single mom to two kids and a big job? Come have dinner with Irene and hear her China story.

Romeo et Juliette, Jun 9 to Jun 23

This musical version of Shakespeare’s classic tale of love and loss is brought to life in French. Audiences have raved about the beautiful score, luxurious set design, and powerful performances. All ages. RMB 180-480 (buy tickets here). 2.30pm, or 7.30pm. Century Theater.

The Wizard of Oz, Jun 13 to 30

“We’re off to see the Wizard, the wonderful Wizard of Oz…” And you could be too, if you get down to the Tianqiao Performing Arts Center later this month. This is a revived and refreshed version of the stage musical, sure to delight all who love the classic film, and youngsters who are new to the story. Performed in English with Chinese subtitles. All ages. RMB 280-1080. 7.30pm, Sat-Sun 2.30pm matinee. Tianqiao Performing Arts Center. Bldg 9, Tianqiao South Street, Xicheng District. (400-635-3355) www.247tickets.com/t/broadway-classic-musical-the-wizard-of-oz. 西城区天桥南大街9号楼.

Shape Up for Charity, Jun 22

Beijing Women’s Network Healthy Living Series is partnering with Superlife Gym for the first ever Shape Up For Charity event, featuring Sculpt Yoga & Meditation.

Women only. RMB 55 for yoga, RMB 85 for full event. 10.15am-1pm. Superlife Gym – No 50, Workers’ Stadium, West Road, Chaoyang District. 朝阳区工体西路50号

National Geographic: A New Age of Exploration 2.0, until Jun 23
All ages. This is the final week of this exhibition, which showcases classic images of China and includes a new display called “China Memory”, which allows visitors to rediscover the grand beauty and cultural heritage of Chinese rivers and mountains, from the perspective of award-winning international photographers. RMB 70-100. 9am- 5pm. Beijing World Art Museum. For more information or tickets, go to www.247tickets.com

TONG Production Children’s Play “Panda’s Home”, Jun 22 to 23

Photos: courtesy of event organizers

Bored of malls and trampoline parks? Each month we pick out some of Beijing’s cultural attractions which are particularly suitable for families, and which will leave your kids amazed, inspired, and intrigued.

Workshop: Sewing and Giant Spiders

The famous giant spider “Maman”, seen here in Zurich, can be viewed in Beijing until Jun 23

French-American artist Louise Bourgeois was famed for her giant spiders, but she was also interested in the importance of traditional textile arts: sewing, weaving, and spinning. This workshop, run by Atelier, accompanies the first large-scale exhibition of her work in China, and will help kids understand the work of this important artistic figure. If you can’t make it to the workshop, the exhibition runs until June 23, and is well worth exploring.

The Eternal Thread, Jun 8

Age 8+. RMB 750. 10am-3pm. Song Art Museum, Grasse Road, Loutai Village, Tianzhu Town, Shunyi District.(13240184908) https://globerweb.com/listings/song-art-museum-workshop/ 松美术馆：顺义区 天竺镇楼台村南格拉斯路

Art: Toys From a Different Culture

This exhibition of handcrafted, brightly painted toys from different regions of Japan is an insight into what kids from different cultures have in common, and where they differ. The toys also have symbols and shapes intended to bring good luck. The only complaint you might get from your little ones is that they’re not allowed to touch them!

Japanese Folk Toys, until Sep 15

All ages. Free. 10am-10pm. Muji Hotel, Building 2, 21 Langfang Toutiao, Meishi Street, Xicheng District. (6316 9199) www.douban.com/event/32041204/. 西城区 廊房头条21号院北京坊W2号楼B1层.

Theater: A Much-Loved Musical

“We’re off to see the Wizard, the wonderful Wizard of Oz…” And you could be too, if you get down to the Tianqiao Performing Arts Center later this month. This is a revived and refreshed version of the stage musical, sure to delight all who love the classic film, and youngsters who are new to the story. Performed in English with Chinese subtitles.

The Wizard of Oz, Jun 13-30

All ages. RMB 280-1080. 7.30pm, Sat-Sun 2.30pm matinee. Tianqiao Performing Arts Center. Bldg 9, Tianqiao South Street, Xicheng District. (400-635-3355) www.247tickets.com/t/broadway-classic-musical-the-wizard-of-oz. 西城区天桥南大街9号楼.

Dance: A Charming Tale for Little Ones

Panda’s Home is a Chinese-Italian co-production, which has enchanted audiences around the world. TPO Dance Troupe specialize in combining technology with art to produce a mesmerizing experience, where children are allowed onto the stage to interact with the dancers.

Panda’s Home, Jun 22-23

Ages 4-9 plus parents/ carers. RMB 160-350. Various times. National Centre for the Performing Arts. 2 Chang’an Jie, Xicheng District. (6655 0000) http://ticket.chncpa.org/product-1060503.html. 西城区西长安街2号.

Photography: A Rock Legend

Teens just discovering the legacy of the late great David Bowie will be fascinated by this exhibition. Mick Rock was Bowie’s official photographer during his iconic “Ziggy Stardust” era, documenting the singer’s extraordinary costumes and performances, and the pantheon of rock greats who worked with him, including Lou Reed and Iggy Pop.

Bowie by Mick Rock, until Aug 4

All ages. RMB 108 weekdays, RMB 120 weekends and holidays, free for Seniors 65+ with ID and for one child under 1.2m accompanied by an adult. 10am-7pm. 798 Art Factory. 4 Jiu Xian Qiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (1132 2248) www.247tickets.com/t/bowie-mick-rock-beijing. 酒仙桥路4号大山子艺术区.

Photos: https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=15617848, www.douban.com/event/32041204/, www.tqpac.com/item/1999.html, http://ticket.chncpa.org/product-1060503.html, Mick Rock via www.247tickets.com/t/bowie-mick-rock-beijing