Get ready for a fantastic family day out at the very first Beijing  River BBQ Fest! From September 19 to 21, the Riverside Cultural Plaza at Langyuan Station will be transformed into a welcoming paradise of delicious food and fun for all ages.

Our special early bird ticket is a great value for a full day of fun! Here’s what’s on offer:

Standard Early Bird Ticket: RMB 19.9
Includes:
– Festival admission wristband for one
– A refreshing Signature Drink (375ml)
– A fun themed bandana

On-site Ticket: RMB 29.9
Includes:
– Festival admission wristband (drink and bandana not included)

Best of all: Kids under 1.2m tall get in for FREE when accompanied by an adult! The venue is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry family members along for the adventure.

What are you waiting for?! Grab your tickets now by scanning the QR code below!

Embark on a delicious global tasting adventure with over 40 vendors! It’s a perfect opportunity for the whole family to explore exciting new flavors together. Enjoy everything from classic American BBQ and Mexican tacos to Brazilian churrasco, Mongolian barbecue, Chinese chuan’r, and even unique fusion flavors from Africa and Vietnam.

Of course, we’ll have plenty of options for everyone, including fresh juices, soft drinks and sweet treats for the kids. With its lively music and welcoming atmosphere, the River Beijing BBQ Fest is the perfect food-filled event to create lasting family memories and welcome the autumn season.

Langyuan Station Riverside Cultural Plaza

The River BBQ Fest will be taking place at Langyuan Station Riverside Cultural Plaza. Last year, the space underwent an upgrade and now features a scenic platform overlooking the Ba River. With blue skies, grassy lawns, river views, pedestrian streets and a sunken plaza, it’s the perfect setting for an autumn event.

Langyuan Station itself is a cultural and creative landmark featuring both industrial and international styles. Its location by the Ba River and adjacent to the greenery of Jiangfu Park makes it a place where you can enjoy nature and pop-up cultural activities at the same time. It’s home to an array of businesses and industries such as art museums, cafés, home design, trendy fashion, upscale dining, sports and film, and it has become a popular hotspot for shopping and socializing in Beijing.

Langyuan Station Riverside Cultural Plaza 郎园Station滨河广场
53 Banjieta Lu, Chaoyang District
朝阳区半截塔路53号

If you’d like to stay up-to-date with everything BBQ-related in the capital, join our BBQ Lovers group chat by scanning the QR code below.

If the group is full or the QR code has expired, you can add TBJButler by scanning the QR code below instead and ask to be added into the group.

Images: the Beijinger

With the long holiday around the corner, there’s no better time than now to enjoy the amazing weather and everything Beijing has to offer:

Q&A at Raffles Hospital: How To Prevent and Manage Children’s Spring Allergies

This month’s topic is both practical and beneficial, and the craft/DIY activity will be a fun experience for both parents and kids. Dr Cecille Winnie Joy Brion, the head of Pediatrics, will be there to answer all your questions, and teacher Emma from JPED Kindergarten will make sure you and your little one enjoy a fun parent-child activity. Limited slots available.

Where: Raffles Hospital Beijing, B1 Activity Room
When: Apr 25, 10am
Price: Free for Raffles Hospital Members and B2B Group members

2025 Life Festival

Spend your May holiday surrounded by the amazing architecture of the Drum Tower, and enjoy traditional music and dance performances at this year’s Life Festival. There will be something for everyone, from an art exhibition and a hanfu parade, to loads of interactive fun and games. Buy your tickets by scanning the QR code.

Where: Drum Tower
When: May 1-5, 9.30am-5.30pm, 7pm-9pm
Price: RMB 38-228

Taco Fest

Become a Respectful Parenting Educator

Rebecca Archer has been facilitating parenting workshops in China and Vietnam for seven years now, and it is one of the most rewarding experiences of her life! Many of you have taken her parent workshops and experienced the impact.

 She has recently become a positive discipline trainer, and she is going to be offering an online certification course to anyone interested in becoming a parent educator and running their own parenting classes and workshops. 

If you are a

• Parent who loves to support other parents
• School counselor, therapist, school admin who wants an evidence-based, experiential, parent education framework to run workshops or to support parents with strategies for behavior
• A parent who knows the “right” things to do, but struggles to actually implement respectful parenting strategies
• Anyone who works with parents or would like to run parent workshops as a side business

then please check out the information and become a certified parent educator.

**Continuing Education Credits (US) are available.

Where: Online
When: May 6, 10am-12.30pm Beijing; noon-2.30pm Brisbane
Price: USD 499

Future Thinkers Program Award Ceremony

Get ready to splash into vibrant hues and festive joy because Holi, the Hindu festival of colors, is just around the corner – and Beijing is gearing up for an unforgettable celebration. Picture this: a rooftop extravaganza with bursts of color against the skyline! We chatted with Arun Moger for the inside scoop on the traditions of this lively festival and what to expect from the upcoming rooftop bash at MOONEE on Mar 24.

Q: Could you break down what Holi is for the uninitiated?
A: It’s a festival where spring rolls out the red carpet and colors fly like confetti. That’s Holi for you, a Hindu festival that’s a big deal in India and beyond. It’s the kind of party that welcomes spring with a rainbow splash.

Q: Holi’s all about colors, right? What’s the deal with that?
A: Oh, it’s a color carnival, alright! Imagine every hue in a powder form, ready to be launched at friends and strangers alike. But it’s not just a free-for-all paint fight – it’s steeped in mythology. Take the tale of Prahlad and his dad Hiranyakashipu – classic good vs evil stuff. Prahlad’s devotion to the good guy, Lord Vishnu, gets him through some fiery trials, literally. The colors? They’re a high-five to the triumph of good, unity, and all those warm, fuzzy feelings of spring.

Q: You’ve got a rooftop Holi bash in Beijing? Tell me more!
A: Think about the skyline as your canvas. We wanted to mix up tradition with a twist, so we took Holi up a notch – literally – to a rooftop in Beijing. It’s about sharing the Holi spirit, giving people a fresh perspective (pun intended), and throwing a party that’s as much about cultural fusion as it is about fun.

Q: First-time Holi-goers with the fam – what should they look out for?
A: If you’re hitting Holi with the family, gear up for the color blitz. Old clothes are your best bet, and bonus points if you pack extras. Get ready to groove because the beat won’t stop, and the dance is where it’s at. And hey, it’s not just a feast for the eyes – your taste buds are in for a treat, too, with some sweet festive staples. Just remember, it’s all about love and respect, so keep it cool with the color throws.

Q: Tell us about the organic Holi colors at the event.
A: You bet! We’re all about keeping it green and clean with organic Holi colors. They’re made from stuff like flowers and herbs, so no icky chemicals. Plus, they’re kind to critters since no animals are harmed in making them. At our shindig, we want everyone to have a blast without worrying about their skin or the planet.

Q: What’s the scoop on the food and drinks included in the entry fee?
A: Get ready for a feast! We’re talking unlimited bites – veggie starters, non-veg appetizers, biryani for all – and Indian sweets that’ll make your taste buds dance. Wash it down with soft drinks, and for the grown-ups there’s a free alcoholic drink to toast with. Big shoutout to our local food joints for making this happen!

Q: Why is white the dress code for Holi?
A: Wearing white’s like starting with a blank canvas. It’s all about purity and getting ready for a fresh start. Plus, when everyone’s in white, it makes those colors pop like crazy! And it’s a great equalizer – no matter who you are, you’re part of the rainbow.

Q: Any special arrangements for kids at the event?
A: Absolutely! We’ve got a whole kids’ zone lined up. Think color play areas, craft stations, and even Bollywood dance lessons. We want the little ones to soak up the culture and have a blast, all while staying safe.

Q: Got any pro tips for families attending the event?
A: Sure do! Dress in white threads you don’t mind getting colorful; pack an extra set of clothes, and maybe keep those phones in waterproof cases. Sort out your ride early, have a family game plan for safety, and dive into the Holi spirit together!

Q: How can folks stay in the loop with the Beijing Indian community and future events?
A: Keeping in touch is easy! We’ve got community groups where we post updates, or you can hit up the “All Things Social” WeChat group. And hey, if any Beijingers can get me into their social circles, I’ll share all the fun Indian happenings there!

Images: Pexels, Arun Moger

Festival lights make the holiday season glow – literally! While Beijing currently resembles a ghost town more than the festive end-of-year cheers that we remember, there are still places that are hyping up the holiday season. And honestly, a bit of festive cheer might just be the thing to light the whole family’s spirit during a time like this.

Solana is usually packed this time of the year, but not this year. However, their annual lights decoration is still in full bloom!

Surrounding the big fountain by the kids’ stores and restaurants is this year’s lights decoration. Call ahead and book ahead for one of the cool outdoor tent tables at Let’s Burger.

Find it:
Unit L-RS-206, Bldg 11, 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu, Chaoyang District
朝阳区朝阳公园路6号蓝色港湾国际商区11号楼L-RS-20层
Tel: 5905 6055

By the front where the fountain with the giant ball and Paris Baguette are located, Solana has set up five adorable characters that light up the night.

Take a stroll down the indoor/outdoor lane where Godiva is located and you’re going to be met with the wonders of more adorable characters floating overhead. And for those looking to take some lights-filled holiday photos, at night the food street next to Liangma River looks like a walk through the Milky Way.

Finally, before you head home, be sure to stop by the Avatar exhibition located in front of the cinema to enter the world of Pandora. The 140sqm exhibition is a must-see for any sci-fi fan.

Pro tip: This weekend Solana will have live music inside the mall.

Images: Solana

Following the success of last year’s street fair, this year’s Best of British Festival is moving to a literally more ritzy location: the garden of the Ritz-Carlton Beijing.

“We really wanted to take things up a level this year,” organizer AJ Donnelly told beijingkids, “which is why we went for the Ritz-Carlton.”

We asked him to tell us more about the festival.

“It’s basically a way for small Brit-linked businesses to connect with a wider market and highlight the success they’ve had in China, because honestly it’s very difficult for them to get support and stand out by themselves. So Best of British provides a platform for them to do that by offering ‘strength in numbers’. The fact that it’s a family day with events for everyone just means we are able to reach even more people.”

Among the family-friendly attractions are cupcake decorating, a calligraphy workshop, face painting, and a Shaolin kung fu workshop. Vendors will be offering a range of goods from jewelry to plush toys to tea caddies. Refreshments include bangers and mash (British sausages and mashed potatoes), cider for the grown-ups, and of course fish and chips. And it’s all for a good cause.

“All four charities we have at the event are British-linked,” Donnelly told us: “the British Club of Beijing, MCF, Roots and Shoots, and Roundabout.”

Donnelly emphasizes that the event is for everybody, not just Brits.

“Let’s show Beijing that Britain is more than just Boris and Brexit!” he says.

Photos: courtesy of event organizers

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. 

Roundabout Summer Sale, September 5 – 12

All ages. To coincide with the Alipay and Tencent “Week of Giving” Roundabout is having a great sale. Find some fantastic clothes on sale this week at Roundabout! You get to have great clothes and give to their wonderful charity. Buy two items of summer stock and get one free. Any purchase in the vintage and designer section of the shop that is over RMB 750 receives a further 20 percent off (excluding consignment items).

Free. All day. Roundabout Cathay View Plaza.

Mid-Autumn Festival Celebration, September 13

All ages. Come and celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival with an evening of music and culture at The Children’s House Kindergarten’s garden at their Oceanwide campus. Celebrate in a child-oriented, relaxed, and intimate setting. There will be moon-themed arts and crafts, moon cake making, and traditional Chinese musicians will provide live music. This event is done potluck style, so please bring a sweet or savory dish to share. The evening will end with lighting and floating of candles on the water by moonlight.

Registration needed. 5pm – 7pm. The Children’s House Montessori Kindergarten, Oceanwide Campus.

Russian State Ballet: The Sleeping Beauty, September 13

The well known story of Sleeping Beauty is coming to the stage with the Russian State Ballet. For twenty years the Russian State Ballet Theater has been considered one of the leading Russian ballet companies. The ballet opens with the King and Queen preparing their daughter, Aurora, for her christening. Many are invited, including the fairies of the realm, the new princess’s Godmothers. However, one fairy is left out of the party. Her anger at being left out leads to a series of events that leaves the beloved baby princess cursed.

RMB 180 – 880. 7.30pm. Mei Lanfang Grand Theater.

Mooncake Making With Black Sesame Kitchen, September 13 and 14

All ages. Celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival at Black Sesame Kitchen. Black Sesame Kitchen is hosting an open house party on Friday, Sept 13 to celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival. Learn to make moon cakes, paint Beijing clay rabbits, fold a paper flower or enjoy a tea ceremony for adults only. Family moon cake making class starts at 10am on Saturday and includes a light lunch.

RMB 150 for general entry or RMB 198 per person for the moon cake making class, registration needed. 10am. Black Sesame Kitchen.

Wild Great Wall BBQ, September 15

After a long break, Beijing Experience’s famous BBQ at the wild Great Wall comes back on Sunday September 15. Uruguayan grass feed beef, craft sausages, home made salad, sangria, and other delicacies will be offered. Enjoy amazing wild Great Wall views while eating prime quality products. Book your spot before Friday Sept 13.

RMB 599. All day. Wild Great Wall. Wechat: 13071139166

KidsCity: Architect for a Day! September 15

Ages 6-14. KidsCity believes that cities can be better by inspiring and empowering the next generation of city-builders: our kids. This is an architecture workshop for kids where they will spend a day together with a team of designers and learn what it is like to be an architect. Kids will learn how to read plans, design roads, parks, and interesting buildings, and then collaborate to build a vertical hutong. This event is outdoors and offered in English and Chinese.

RMB 350 needs registration. 11am-3pm. 798 Art District.

2047 Apologue 3, September 13 – 15

Zhang Yimou, the award-winning director of House of Flying Daggers, Raise the Red Lantern and other classic films, turns to the stage, and directs 2047 Apologue 3. 2047 Apologue 3 is a conceptual theater presentation, exploring the future of AI and how it brings new possibilities into our lives both positive and negative. This is a dialogue between humanity, science, and technology.

RMB 280 – 1280. 7:30pm. National Centre for Performing Arts.

The Beatles: Beat On, Now to September 15

The Beatles were a legendary rock group that formed in Liverpool, England in 1960, and went on to transform popular music as a creative, highly commercial art form over the next decade. The Beatles were one of the most popular bands of all time, producing songs like “Yesterday, “Hey Jude,” “Penny Lane, “With A Little Help From My Friends,” and “Come Together.” Apart from the music, the exhibition is also a panoramic look back into the Beatles’ golden era, to let Chinese fans enjoy the years they missed.

All ages. RMB 68 – 178.  Chaoyang Joy City. 

Musical: Les Choristes (Mandarin), September 13 – 22

Ages 3+. Les Choristes (The Chorus) is a 2004 European drama directed by Christophe Barratier based on the 1945 film, A Cage of Nightingales. The story concerns a successful orchestra conductor, Pierre Morhange, who returns to France when his mother dies and explores the childhood inspirations that brought him to music. He reminisces with his childhood friend about their time at Fond de L’Etang, a school for “difficult” boys, and a teacher who brightened up the school by assembling a choir.

RMB 180 – 880. Offered at multiple times. Haidian Theater.

Colorful World and Common Destiny, Now – Sept 21

The 8th China Beijing International Art Biennale is here. This is an art competition based on the original Venice Biennale, where every two years countries send works of art representing them to the city and display them together. The National Art Museum of China (NAMOC) displays 640 pieces from 595 artists, representing 113 countries with the theme, “Colorful World and Common Destiny.” Artists work in every medium, and there is a great diversity of art to appreciate. NAMOC focuses on presenting the diversity of world civilizations and the wisdom and development of China.

Free. 9am. The National Art Museum of China. 

《Love Is Blue》—— Art Opening Ceremony, Now – September 22

All ages. Go on a journey to the four corners of your imagination, with contemporary artists selected by Art-Des for this summer exhibition, artists who see life through blue and love. Blue is a symbol of truth, like limpid water that cannot hide anything. Blue is the echo of life, travel, and discoveries. The exhibition LOVE is BLUE is like the water that quenches; the blue has a small refreshing and pure side which allows us to find a certain inner calm related to the deep things.

Free. 4pm – 7pm. Contemporary Art Culture Center.

Register for Atelier’s 2019-2020 Program, Now – Sept 26

Ages 6 to Adults. Atelier Art School is offering three programs for the 2019-2020 semester in Art, Fablab, and Fashion. Atelier provides high-quality, signature art education from kids to adults. Join their Art program to improve your drawing skills or create to learn new skills. Fablab or digital fabrication laboratories were invented by MIT professor Neil Gershenfeld and are increasingly being used by schools as a platform for project-based, hands-on STEAM education. Finally, the ever popular Fashion classes, including sewing for adults, where adults learn to create beautiful outfits. Click here for more information and registration.

RMB 300 – 520 per class. Campuses located in Sunlitun, Shunyi, and Beigao. 

NBA Exhibition: Unstoppable Beijing, Now – October 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, videos, and exciting memorabilia, the multi-level experience will showcase the passion of the league, its teams, and will explore the many ways the NBA has evolved since its founding in 1946.

RMB 90. 10am. 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 pieces Lego bricks.

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

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. 

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).

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.

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. Needs Registration. Western Academy of Beijing.

New Street Dance Term at WAB, September 1 to December 12

All ages. Learn some new moves with Sunshine Studios! 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. TBD. Western Academy of Beijing. 

Karate and Martial Arts Class with Adventure Zone, Every Tuesday and Thursday, now through December

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 needs registration. 4pm. Kerry Sports Center L3.

Prima Ballerina Classes, Every Friday

Age 4-9. Prima Ballerina through the Royal Academy of Dance offers fun ballet classes for children. Every Friday they offer Pre-Primary, Primary and RAD Grade 2 classes.

Pre-Primary ballet. Age 4-5. Fridays, 4-4.30pm.
Primary ballet. Age 5-6. Fridays, 5-5.50pm.
RAD Grade 2 Ballet. Age 8-9. Fridays, 5.50-6.50pm

RMB 160 – 200 per class. 4pm. Prima Ballerina. 

This article appeared in the beijingkids September 2019 Family Foodies issue

Photos: Pixabay, Event Sponsors

It’s time to talk about health. We are already in the thick of 2019; New Year resolutions may have fizzled into oblivion and that new wellness hobby of yours has already caught the bus back to the land of good intentions, so what could you really get your teeth into and feel like you’re taking the right steps to a healthier you? The 2019 International Running Festival Beijing Half Marathon of course!

Beijing United Family Hospital (BJU) is the exclusive healthcare provider for this year’s Beijing Half Marathon and foreign competitors can register for the run through their offline registration channel. The registration process is easy peasy and your future self will be thanking you for taking the initiative to jump (or run) on board. Registration takes place at BJU between March 18-22.

Just prepare the following!

• Prepare your ID and a copy of your marathon certificate and payment in cash
• Go to the 2019 Beijing Half Marathon registration location: BJU
• Fill out the registration form
• Provide a copy of your ID and a copy of your marathon certificate
• Sign the participation declaration and pay the fee of RMB 120

After completing all the necessary registration steps, you will receive a text message of acceptance from the 2019 Beijing Half Marathon and then all that needs to be done is the filling out of the registration form on the Beijing Half Marathon website. You’ll then be able to pick up your participation equipment at the Beijing Half Marathon EXPO. Yay!

Starting point will be at Tiananmen Square on April 14 and the finish line is at Olympic Park. For more information contact info@beijing-halfmarathon.com. Dust off those sneakers, add some electrolytes to your bottle of water, don’t forget to stretch, and we’ll see you at the finish line! Good luck. RMB 120. March 18 -22 (registration). 10.00am -12.00pm and 2.00pm – 4.00pm. Beijing United Family Hospital, Building 2, Lobby 2, Jiangtai Road, Chaoyang District (010 6716 7482).

(This summer Andrew Killeen traveled around Mongolia with his wife and two children: Noah, 10, and Joseph, 7. In this series of posts, he shares tips and tales from their adventures. Check out part 1, part 2, part 3 and part 4 of the series.)

The culmination of our trip to Mongolia was the national Naadam festival, held in July every year. Naadam simply means “Game”, and smaller events are held all across the country throughout the summer. However the capital’s version is the biggest and most prestigious. We bought tickets via the LG Guesthouse for both days, although with hindsight one day would have been enough.

Make sure you go on the first day of the festival, and catch the opening ceremony, a spectacular expression of national pride, featuring dancing, battle recreations, parades in traditional costume, and, when we attended, a celebration of the 35th anniversary of the flight of Mongolia’s first (and to date only) cosmonaut.

Most of the other westerners disappeared after the ceremony, and we soon discovered why. Mongolian sports are not particularly geared towards spectators, and unless you know the competitors personally (as of course most of the onlookers do), the appeal can be elusive. However it’s fun just to wander around and watch the crowds, participants mingling with spectators, and enjoy the sideshows such as fortune-telling and that old favorite, seeing how long you can hang onto a bar.

Of the Three Manly Sports central to the Naadam, wrestling is the most dramatic. As with the other events the competitors are not professionals, and are competing for the glory of their hometown or region. However the sport is central to Mongolian culture. Traveling around we frequently saw young men wrestling formally or informally, and it’s not hard to see why Mongolians have come to dominate sumo, to the distress of many Japanese fans.

Unlike sumo though there is no ring, and bouts only end when one of the wrestlers is thrown. As a result they can go on for some time, and for the Naadam the officials intervene after 30 minutes to try to force a result. Even so the event was running very late by day two. It’s well worth trying to catch one of the challenge rounds, when the wrestlers line up and their coaches sing a list of their accomplishments, followed by an invitation to the opponent they want to face. While each song is being sung, the wrestler being praised wheels around, arms outstretched like the wings of a falcon.

The second of the Three Manly Sports is archery. The target is a pile of blocks on the ground, and the arrows are blunt – which is just as well, since the judges stand around next to them, indicating the skill of the shot by raising their arms and singing. It’s an impressive sight, but the novelty soon fades.

Anklebone shooting is a minor event at the Naadam, but one of the most entertaining to watch. Competitors flick sheep bones at a row of other bones set up on a platform. There are of course traditional songs to celebrate good shots, and shooters will hum to encourage each other.

The third Manly Sport is horse racing, but here I must come clean. We were so exhausted from our adventures that we didn’t make it to the venue, which lies outside the city. A taxi driver refused to take us, saying it was too far, and we were unable to find the bus stop, so in the end we simply gave up. However we weren’t too disappointed, as we’d had a previous encounter with the riders.

We had been crossing the desert south of UB when we saw trucks and jeeps ahead of us, and asked the driver to take us over to investigate. It became apparent that we had stumbled across a practice session for the Naadam. The jockeys are children, and one local jokingly asked whether Joseph would be competing. While the dads stood around chatting and making bets, the kids saddled up and rode around in a circle, singing an eerie, wordless song. At an unseen signal they all galloped away, and disappeared in a cloud of dust. It remains one of our most magical memories of Mongolia.

Photos: Karen Killeen

Did you know we have a family events WeChat group? Join two hundred other internationally-minded families for the latest information on what’s going on in Beijing. Send an email to editor@beijing-kids.com with your WeChat id or add vanessajencks on WeChat. Please note that readers should confirm with each organizer if events are cancelled or scheduled as planned.
Free
Christmas Charity Bazaar for Couleurs de Chine, Nov 29
All ages. Come experience some Italian culture while also helping to raise money for a worthy cause. The Italian Cultural Institute will be hosting a charity bazaar to raise money for vulnerable children at Great Mao Mountains. Free. 10am-5pm. Italian Cultural Institute.

Women’s Only Self Defense Classes, Nov 25 to Dec 10
Ages 6+. November 25th is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against women so from Nov. 25th until Dec. 10th, the Beijing American Center will be celebrating 16 days against gender-based violence with women’s only self-defense classes. Free. 6.30-8.30pm. East Gate of the US Embassy.

Open House at La Maison Montessori de Pékin, Dec 3
All ages. The French-Chinese Montessori kindergarten for 2-6 years old, La Maison Montessori de Pékin will hold open day on Saturday December 3, from 10am to 1pm. The event will include a school visit, Montessori education introduction, meeting the teachers, and activities for children. Free. 10am-1pm. La Maison Montessori de Pékin.

Star Kids Book Fair at BSB Shunyi, Nov 30 – Dec 2
All ages. Adults and kids can increase their libraries or buy loved ones gifts at the Star Kids Book Fair at the BSB Shunyi foyer. The new titles and popular authors will be available for immediate purchase. This will take place from November 30 to December 2. Free admittance. 9am-4pm. The British School of Beijing, Shunyi. (8047 3588 www.bsbshunyi.com)

BCIS and MCF Christmas Charity Bazaar, Dec 3
All ages. This joint bazaar between BCIS and Migrants Children’s Family is a fundraising event for MCF that features live performances, shopping, food, and mingling with friends and the wider BCIS and MCF community at the main BCIS campus. Free. 11am-3pm. Beijing City International School. (Zhuofei.yang@bcis.cn)

WAB Charity Bazaar, Dec 3
All ages. The Western Academy of Beijing’s Charity Bazaar features hundreds of vendors offering homemade gifts, holiday food and drink, and dozens of unique items for sale. Proceeds from the event will go to assist several charity organizations, including the Chi Heng Foundation, supporting HIV-affected children in rural China through education. Free. 10am-3.30pm. Western Academy of Beijing. (5986 5588, wabinfo@wab.edu)

Hilton Beijing Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony & Charity Bazaar, Dec 3
All ages. Hilton Beijing once again celebrates the holidays with its Traditional European Christmas Train & Village from December 3 to January 2017. The Christmas Village features a Giant Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and a children’s chorus from 5.50-6.30pm. There will also be over 70 bazaar booths (2-8pm) with all proceeds from sales going to support the Morning Tears Organization. Free. 2-8pm. Hilton Beijing. (jane.yin@hilton.com)

The Hutong Winter Fayre, Dec 10
All ages. This fayre brings food and artisanal products to the hutongs for a spot of shopping. There a wide selection of different goods on sale. Free. 11am-4pm. The Hutong. (159 0104 6127, info@thehutong.com)

Christmas Tree Lighting @ Langham Place, Dec 2
All ages. Join Langham Place guests and staff in ringing in the Christmas cheer with their annual Christmas tree lighting. There will be food, drinks, and a raffle! Free. 6-9pm. Langham Place. (6450 4202).

Integrating Technology with Education, Dec 1
Adults. Parents won’t want to miss the Yew Chung International School of Beijing’s (YCIS Beijing) Open Day on December 1. This Open Day presents a unique opportunity for parents to learn how technology can be effectively utilized in schools and at home as well as the undeniable benefits that these tools provide. Free. Begins at 9.30am. YCIS Beijing. (8583 3731).

Unique
Viva Beijing’s Christmas Gathering & Cookie Making, Nov 29
Adults. Celebrate the winter holidays with Viva Beijing Network’s annual Christmas gathering! There will be appetizers, drinks, and cookies on cookies to decorate and take home. RMB 180. 6.30-9.30pm. Lily American Diner.
CISCA Annual Gala, Dec 3 to Dec 4
All ages. This year The Conservatory of International Style and Cultural Arts will be performing Sleeping Beauty. The night will be full of wonder and one that will be sure to remember. Free. 4.30-7.30pm. The Conservatory of International Style and Cultural Arts.
Startup Grind Beijing, Nov 30
Adults. Founded in Silicon Valley, Startup Grind is the largest independent startup community, actively educating, inspiring, and connecting 400,000 founders in over 200 cities. To celebrate their return in Beijing, Startup Grind has prepared one big and fun event with delicious food, drinks, and food in technology at the Hatchery. RMB 150. 6.30-9.30pm. The Hatchery. (info@jingjobs.com)
A Christmas Carol: A Twisted Musical Comedy, Dec 2-8
All ages. This is not your grandmother’s A Christmas Carol. Be prepared for a zany twist on a classic story. Beijing Playhouse also invites audience member to cheer, boo, hiss and sing along as Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit, a crazy man in a dress, and the Ghosts teach Scrooge the true meaning of Christmas. RMB 210 (Adults) and RMB 140 (kids and students). 7.30-9.30pm. 77 Theater, C&C Creative Park. Register here.

JZ Atelier Children Class-Bejeweled Christmas Ornaments Workshop, Dec 4
Ages 6+. This year let the children lead the way, JZ Atelier is proudly present a three weeks of special featured Christmas bejeweled ornaments making workshops. Children will make their own Christmas ornaments, wreath in their own term. RMB 990 for 3 sessions. 10am-Noon. LaiTai Flower Market. (182 1063 4921, WeChat: suttech)

Handel’s Messiah Performance, Dec 3
Ages 7+. For the 14th year running, International Festival Chorus and Peking Sinfonietta continue their annual tradition of performing Handel’s Messiah. This year’s concert will benefit Future Forest,a charity tasked with planting trees in Inner Mongolia’s Kubuqi desert to stabilize the sands and improve the local ecosystem. With every two tickets sold, one tree will be planted during next year’s expeditions. RMB 280-380. Harrow International School of Beijing. (For group tickets contact: tickets@beijingifc.org; buy tickets here).

Ongoing
Art Jamming with Eva, Saturdays
All ages. Come join kids, families, and Eva and paint your heart out every Saturday. Paint supplies are included in this pleasant Saturday afternoon activity. RMB 100. 2-3pm and 3-4pm. Fella’s.

Active Parenting Workshops: Primary School, Mondays
Adults. Parents of Primary School-aged students are invited to attend Active Parenting Workshops every Monday from October 24 through November 28 at Yew Chung International School of Beijing (YCIS Beijing). Parents will learn a set of techniques to help their child develop their human potential. Free. 10am-Noon. YCIS Beijing. (8583 3731).

Active Parenting Workshops: Secondary School, Tuesdays
Adults. Active Parenting uses entertaining and informative programs, activities, and discussion to show parents ways to raise responsible, cooperative children who are able to resist negative peer pressure. These workshops will run from October 25 through November. Free. 10am-Noon. YCIS Beijing. (8583 3731).

Best of Next Week
Morning Tears at the 2016 Winter Ball, Dec 10
Adults. Morning Tears China strives to ensure that the rights of the child are available to all children of convicts, and to enable these children to grow up in dignity and develop their full potential. RMB 650. 6.30-10.30pm. Hilton Beijing Infinity Ballroom.

Hope International School Christmas Concert, Dec 9
All ages. This show is a great opportunity for our students to perform and for the community to come together and have a good time. All proceeds will go to the expansion of the music department. RBM 50-120. 7-8.30pm. Hope International School. (wood.kaliyah@hopeintlschool.org)

A Dulwich Christmas, Dec 13
All ages. Join in DCB’s annual Christmas time festivities that features Christmas themed gifts and trinkets on sale, Christmas foods including carved turkey, smoked ham, minced pied, fruit cake, apple cider, mulled wine, and more. This year’s celebrations will also include traditional Christmas carols by candlelight for all to join in. Free. 3-8pm. Dulwich College Beijing. (6454 9068, Flora.Zhang@dulwich-beijing.cn)

Photos: The Beijing Playhouse (Zhang Xi), Ulrich Dregler, Kati, Gerhard Gellinger