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. 

The True Cost of Fashion: Who Pays the Price of Our Clothes Documentary Screening, Apr 23
The True Cost is a groundbreaking documentary film that pulls back the curtain on the untold story of “fast fashion” and asks us to consider who really pays the price for our clothing. This screening is followed by a panel discussion with experts from Beijing’s sustainable fashion industry. Adults. RMB 50 (presale tickets include one drink). Book a seat here. 7-9.30pm. The Bookworm, Sanlitun.  (WeChat: becstarnz)

Beijing BISS International School Open House, Apr 25
Beijing BISS International School opens its doors for prospective families who would like to visit the school and communicate with BISS principals to learn more about its educational strategies and get a feel of the school community. The open house is held concurrently with the exhibitions of the BISS students on April 25 (Grade 10 exhibition). All ages. Free admission. Visit this page to register. 9.30-11am. Beijing BISS International School. (RSVP: 6443 3151, admissions@biss.com.cn)

Joy EL International Academy Sports Day, Apr 26
Joy EL International Academy invite everyone to their Sports Day on April 26, with the motto of “Friendship First, Competition Second” rather than just focusing on results. Join in a wide variety of sporting events and enjoy seeing the students having a wonderful time in matches, games, and events. All ages. Free. 8.30am-3.30pm. Joy EL International Academy. (CocoLi@joyelacademy.com)

CISB StageCats Presents: Godspell, Apr 26-27
The CISB StageCats are back and better than ever with an electrifying performance of the world-famous musical, Godspell. From the legendary Broadway composer Stephen Schwartz, Godspell is a highly energetic musical-comedy that retells stories and lessons from the Book of Matthew. While inspired by a religious text as its source, this show is for people of all ages, backgrounds, and tastes! Songs include the worldwide hits “Day by Day”, “Bless the Lord”, and many others. And even better – this will be CISB StageCats’ first musical production with a live band onstage! All ages. RMB 50 (adults), RMB 30 (students). Tickets can be purchased in advance at the CISB front desk or from a member of the cast/crew. Showtimes: Apr 26 (Fri) at 7pm, Apr 27 (Sat) at 2pm (matinee) and 7pm. Canadian International School of Beijing. (RSVP:patrick.connolly@cisbeijing.com, www.cisbtheatre.com)

3e Charity Community Day, Apr 27
3e International School welcomes everyone to their annual 3e Charity Community Day. Come to find bargain treasures and entertain the family with games and activities! Families are invited to sell well-maintained second-hand goods: toys, books, and other household items. Families and vendors can book a table for RMB 100 (table fees will be donated to Living Water Children’s Home). All ages. Free admission. 10am-noon. 3e International School. (6437 3344, community@3einternationalschool.org)

Joy EL International Academy Family Fair, Apr 27
Joy EL International Academy is holding its first Family Fair, where staff, students, and families come together to enjoy fun activities, games, music, and food. This year’s theme is “International Celebration” and there will be a bouncy castle, shows, booths representing the culture and cuisine of 10 countries, and more activities that take place throughout the campus. All ages. Free admission. 10am-4pm. Joy EL International Academy. (CocoLi@joyelacademy.com)

Deepen Your Relationships: Workshops for Couples and Families, Apr 27
Professional coaches Virginie Mangin and Eike Westerholt are holding a workshop on dealing with challenges in relationships. Participants will be able to explore the concrete tools for effective communication, conflict resolution, and addressing needs in a non-assertive way. Adults. RMB 350 per session. 10am-12.30pm. The Bookworm. (eike@eikewesterholt.com, info@beyondcoaching.me)

Swap, Sweat, and Smile: LIVE WITH LESS x Heyrobics, Apr 27
A swap with a sports focus, so bring your exercise clothing and gear, or come and pick up some new stuff. Adults. Free (half price pizza and drinks.). 1-4pm swapping; 4-5pm Heyrobics. Xian Bar, East Hotel. WeChat: crossboundaries

Reflect & Connect: A Coaching Seminar for Parents, Carers & Educators, Apr 27
Titi and Ben of Hill Dynamics lead this workshop for parents, carers, and educators on the topic of raising emotionally healthy children in the age of screens. Learn about setting appropriate limits and help your family connect offline. Adults. RMB 950 (sign up here). 5-7pm. EAST Hotel Beijing.

MCF Murder Mystery: Cut Loose, Apr 27
Migrant Children’s Foundation’s annual event is back, with an 80s themed interactive murder mystery inspired by the classic movie Footloose. Expect lots of 80’s music, references to 80’s pop culture, and more while enjoying a four-course meal and complimentary wine on every table. On the night, you can get involved by dressing up in eighties-themed outfits (big hair, bright make-up, neon accessories) and have a chance of winning prizes for your 80s inspired style! And, it’s interactive! So, if the spirit grabs you, you’ll be given the chance to get up and show what you can do. There will be lots of prizes throughout the evening, including for guessing the murderer, the best 80s dress, and more! Adults. RMB 550. Starts 7pm. Hilton Hotel, Liangmaqiao. (For tickets, contact WeChat ID: LornaDoone)

St. George’s Day Dinner, Apr 27
Celebrate St. George’s Day at this annual dinner that has been around for about a decade in Beijing. Join the company of 200 distinguished guests from the corporate, diplomatic and public sectors. Supported by the British Chamber of Commerce in China, this year’s St. George’s Day Dinner will take place on April 27 at the Westin Chaoyang Beijing Hotel. The event kicks off with a cocktail reception and a witty English tomfoolery by internationally renowned comedian Tim Clark. Enjoy a six-course dinner paired with fine wines. The menu includes roast beef and Yorkshire pudding as the main course, and cheeses paired with vintage port to finish! Adults. RMB 800-900. 6.30pm-midnight. The Westin Beijing Chaoyang. (RSVP: events@lehmanbrown.com or saintgeorgebeijing@gmail.com)

FilComBei: Sunday Fun Day at Chaoyang Park, Apr 28
The Filipino Community in Beijing (FilComBei) invites Filipino families and their friends to Sunday Fun Day at Chaoyang Park. Enjoy a potluck lunch while the young ones play native Filipino games. All ages. RMB 5 (for the park entrance). Attendees are invited to bring food to share with other families. 10am. Chaoyang Park West Gate.

River Blue Documentary Screening, Apr 28
River Blue spans the globe to infiltrate one of the world’s most pollutive industries: fashion. Narrated by clean water supporter Jason Priestley, this groundbreaking documentary examines the destruction of our rivers, its effect on humanity, and the solutions that inspire hope for a sustainable future. Join the documentary screening at The Bookworm on April 28 to learn about how you can use your power as a consumer to vote for ethical and sustainable clothing. Adults. RMB 70 (book a seat here). 8pm. The Bookworm

Photos: Joy EL International School (featured photo)  Valentin Antonucci via Pexels; courtesy of event organizers

Sustainable in Beijing is our semi-regular column about sustainable lifestyle events and green news in Beijing. See more of our coverage here.

The #TrashTag Challenge

Who knew your trash can go viral? In this month’s The Green Pages, my colleague Rebecca Archer talked about the #trashtag challenge, which prompts western social media users to share photos of their clean-ups just like below:

One of the Instagram photos hashtagged #trashtag shows the challenge: take a photo after you clean up a place full of rubbish. This photo is shot in Nepal according to the uploader, Kelllvvviiinnn.

This hashtag is also gaining traction on Weibo with its Chinese version #捡垃圾挑战# (jiǎn lājī tiǎozhàn, “garbage challenge”). As we speak, this Chinese #trashtag has already gotten over 11,000 conversations and 31 million reads since March.

Even before the #trashtag and its Weibo version came to form, an equally important challenge has already done the rounds on the social platform, helping Chinese netizens live a zero waste lifestyle: the #零废弃挑战# (líng fèiqì tiǎozhàn, “zero waste challenge”).

We know that some fads on social media can fade away into oblivion just as fast they became viral, but the #trashtag challenge and its Chinese sister forms are here to stay, with several communities and organizations joining the call to post before-and-after photos of cleaning up rubbish on streets.

Initiatives like this are just one of many ways we can help care for Mother Nature. But what would be even better would be if everyone produced less trash in the first place! Check out our March 2019 Sustainability issue for more ideas on how you can cut down on plastic and other rubbish.

Eco Events This Month

Every year in April, there are many events centering on environmental protection, mainly because of Earth Day (April 22, a Monday this year) and the concept of rebirth during springtime. Here are some activities to check out. You can also visit our Events page for more upcoming environmental events in town.

The Bookworm Eco Spring Fair 2019, Apr 21
The Bookworm and The Bulk House will honor Earth Day by holding a free Pop-Up Eco Market, with the goal of spreading the word about green consumption and zero waste. 35 vendors of fine art, handicrafts, fashion, organic food, and charity from the local community will join the market and show how one can produce and consume the green way.

Ages 16+. Free. Noon-6pm. The Bookworm, Building 4, Nan Sanlitun Road, Chaoyang District. 北京市朝阳区三里屯南街4号 (158 1071 3743, mr_j.c.zhang@hotmail.com)

Live With Less Youth Edition, Apr 21
Live With Less is a program designed to reduce excessive waste. For Earth Day, they are holding a special youth edition co-organized by Inspire Citizens’ student leaders (aged 7 to 16). This activity involves ten vendors, such as The Green Room, Sew Gorgeous, Roundabout Boutique, Fashion by Jenny, and more. At the same time, the Wild Women on the Wall 2019 will hold a special Bake Sale, in support of good causes including Agape Family Life House and Five Loaves and Two Fish.

All ages. Free. Noon- 4pm. Scan QR on the image for more details. Crossboundaries office, 2F, 4 Gongti Beilu, Bldg 10, Electrical Research Institute Compound, Chaoyang District. (WeChat ID: Crossboundaries)

The True Cost of Fashion: Who Pays the Price of Our Clothes Documentary Screening, Apr 23
The True Cost is a groundbreaking documentary film that pulls back the curtain on the untold story of “fast fashion” and asks us to consider who really pays the price for our clothing. This screening is followed by a panel discussion with experts from Beijing’s sustainable fashion industry.

Adults. RMB 50 (presale tickets include one drink). Book a seat here. 7-9.30pm. The Bookworm, Sanlitun.  (WeChat: becstarnz)

Swap, Sweat, and Smile: LIVE WITH LESS x Heyrobics, Apr 27
A swap with a sports focus, so bring your exercise clothing and gear, or come and pick up some new stuff. 

Adults. Free (half price pizza and drinks.). 1-4pm swapping; 4-5pm Heyrobics. Xian Bar, East Hotel. WeChat: crossboundaries

Next on Sustainable in Beijing: I’ll talk about the results of the Eco-Art Challenge that I joined several weeks ago. And a big plus — more about the upcoming Plus Size Clothing Swap party.

Photos: rawpixels.com via Pexels, Instagram @kelllvvviiinnn via Buzzfeed, 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. 

Spring University Fair at The British School of Beijing, Shunyi, Mar 19
Students and parents are invited to one of the largest university fairs in Beijing, hosted by The British School of Beijing, Shunyi (BSB Shunyi) and sponsored by five other major international schools in Beijing. Come and talk to over 90 university admissions representatives in person. Breakout session topics include college interviews, experiential education, scholarships, admissions process, and more. All ages. Free admission. 4.30-7pm. The British School of Beijing (BSB) Shunyi. (8047 3588, brian.chesher@britishschool.org.cn)

100-Minute Non-Stop Heyrobics Workout at BSB Sanlitun, Mar 19
Want an extra challenging workout? Join Heyrobics as they lead a 100-minute non-stop jumping, sweating, smiling workout! It’s extremely challenging yet fun for everyone. The Heyrobics team will bring the beats, some headbands, something to drink, and lots of happiness. You bring… yourself! All ages. RMB 80 (includes a headband and a drink). Sign up here. 6.15-7.55pm. The British School of Beijing Sanlitun. (beijing@heyrobics.com)

Women in Business – Future Women Leaders, Mar 19
The German Chamber and the Wirtschaftsjunioren (Young Business Leaders) Beijing kick off their new Women in Business series with a session on the complexity of issues related to professional women. This series aims to provide a platform for women with diverse professional backgrounds, to build and maintain strong networks, to enhance certain leadership skills, to share experiences and to foster personal and professional growth. Adults. RMB 300. Sign up here. 6.30-10pm. Kempinski Hotel Beijing Lufthansa Center.

National Geographic: A New Age of Exploration 2.0, opens Mar 22
National Geographic magazine is holding a special exhibition: Classic Image Feast 2.0, to explore the wonders of the world and discover the beauty of China. The exhibition will showcase classic images of China and include 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. All ages. RMB 70-100. Buy tickets here. 9am-5pm. Beijing World Art Museum. 9A Fuxing Lu, Haidian District. 海淀区复兴路甲9号 (5980 2222)

Wild Women on the Wall Presents: Fun Run & Walk at Beijing Riviera, Mar 23
Ready your running attire and bring the fam to the Fun Run & Walk at Beijing Riviera, organized by Wild Women on the Wall. Join a whole morning of calorie-burning fun together with your family and friends in either a 2km (starts 9am) or 5km (starts 9.30am) fun walk or fun run. This activity is one of the preceding events organized by the participants of the Wild Women on the Wall marathon, which aims to raise funds for their beneficiaries, Agape Family Life House and Five Loaves & Two Fishes. Adults. RMB 50 (2km), RMB 80 (5km), activities start from 9am. Beijing Riviera Clubhouse. (Buy tickets or register through WeChat by adding either of the following organizers: Anna-Seidel, Lucille_Beijing, or cbeckett)

Slow Boat Spring Family Day, Mar 23
Join Slow Boat Brewery for their Spring Family Day on March 23 (Saturday), noon to 3pm. This themed event includes spring crafts and activities for children, an open breakfast buffet (noon-2pm) and a family-friendly setting for the little ones to craft, explore, and play. All ages. RMB 218 (adults), free for children under 10. Visit this link to register. Noon-3pm. Slow Boat Brewery Sanlitun. 

First Aid Training for Parents at IMC, Mar 24
The International Medical Center (IMC) Beijing is holding first aid training for parents on March 24. Participants will be taught the essentials of teaching children, including getting hold of emergency services and performing basic life support, and learning how to deal with environmental emergencies. Adults. RMB 300 (register here). 9am-noon. International Medical Center (IMC). S-106 Beijing Lufthansa Center, 5 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 1561)

Listen, Little Snail: A Musical Show for Kids, Mar 24
The Western Philharmonic performs Listen, Little Snail at the Tianqiao Arts Centre on March 24th. Follow Emma, a little snail, on a lively journey of exploration perfect for kids and families, and learn about the instruments in the orchestra, different musical techniques and the joy that classical music can bring! All ages. RMB 180-380. Buy tickets here. 10.30am-noon. Beijing Tianqiao Performing Arts Center.

Open Days

Mammolina Children’s Home-Montessori Kindergarten Open House, Mar 20
Prospective parents are invited to visit Mammolina Children’s Home-Montessori Kindergarten and meet the school founder Sasha Giggliesi, who will discuss the ideas of Montessori education and how it is applied to help children prepare for the future. All ages. Free admission. 9.30-11.30am. Mammolina Children’s Home-Montessori Kindergarten.

March Open Days at Yew Chung International School of Beijing, Mar 26 and 28
Yew Chung International School of Beijing (YCIS Beijing) invites parents to their Early Childhood Education Open Day on March 26 to see the school’s Learning Communities. At this open day, participants will also understand how the Yew Chung Education Foundation’s long history in early childhood Education has shaped their teaching today. On March 28, parents can discover the Learning Community model in Primary and Secondary schools, the integrated Chinese program, and know more about the curriculum and teaching style at YCIS Beijing. All ages. Free admission (RSVP here). 9-11am. YCIS Beijing.

Recurring Events

Beijing Farmers Market at Nali Patio, every Tue until Mar 26
Nali Patio hosts the Beijing Farmers Market every Tuesday this month. Shop around for second-hand clothes, DIY toys, homemade food, and farm fresh goodies. All ages. Free to attend. Visit this page for more info. 11am-2pm. Nali Patio courtyard.

Hello Future Kindergarten Songs and Stories, every Tue until Mar 26
Hello Future Kindergarten hosts a weekly toddler playgroup every Tuesday morning from 9.15am to 10.15am. There’s reading, singing, dancing, and crafts for the kids, and coffee for mom and dad. Hello Future recommends that parents and not ayis attend this playgroup. Ages 6 months-3 years and parents. RMB 70. Scan the QR code on the poster to register. 9.15-10.15am. Hello Future Kindergarten, Cathay View West Gate, Maquanying.

Photo: Agung Pandit Wiguna, rawpixels.com via Pexels; courtesy of event organizers

In a recent blog, I talked about munching on healthy grub if you can’t stop eating (as a result of the string of winter and pre-spring holidays). Now let’s take action to get healthier.

Getting into gyms in Beijing is a little bit tricky, especially for those of us who don’t really speak the language well. There are apps and websites that give you vouchers or limited access to gyms, and it’s nice to use it to also work your mind out and learn Chinese before exercising. But if it’s too much and you can’t contain your adrenaline, then head out and sweat the Swedish way.

On April 17, Heyrobics, which its organizers call the “World’s Happiest Sport,” returns this springtime with its fun (and very colorful) method of exercise…

Our friend from the Heyrobics team, Cassie, says this activity will surely make everyone happy. “Our goal is to bring you an effective and accessible training, unveiling the secret to what Swedes have been using since 1978. We’re not like most commercial gyms and coaches; instead, we work to build a healthy and fit community of friends.”

They’ve been doing it in Beijing for some years already. Actually, our team had a chance to bring Linus Holmsäter, son of Heyrobics founder Johan Holmsäter, to The British School of Beijing (BSB), Sanlitun to talk to the kids how exciting it is to become a Heyrobics instructor (see our full feature here). We also sat down with Linus and his brother Hampus when they brought the beat of the Swedish exercise to Beijing in 2011 (see our interview here).

The return of Heyrobics also involves the Swedish Chamber, as well as a group of people interested in learning more about Sweden and connecting to their Swedish roots.

The event happens from 7pm to 8pm on April 17 at BSB, Sanlitun campus. For more info, check out the poster below.

Heyrobics’ Sweat Like a Swede, Apr 17
Ages 10+. RMB 50 (no registration needed). The event takes place at BSB, Sanlitun Campus. Contact cassie@heyrobics.com or 135 8168 0338 or WeChat ID: Heyrobics for more info.

Photos: Courtesy of Heyrobics

Children’s Jazz Class
A step-by-step class that will allow students to explore the intricate rhythm patterns of jazz. The instructor will introduce dancers to the basic footwork, rhythms, and musicality. The students will learn co-ordination and rhythm. As children progress through each lesson, more challenging combinations and steps will be learned, along with rehearsals leading to a dance recital at the end of the course. Classes take place every Thursday, from 3.45-4.30pm at House of Knowledge International Kindergarten (HOK) Quanfa campus. To sign up, email qf@hokschools.com

October Holiday Soccer Camp
Coach Fabio Pinto will be holding a soccer camp for kids in grades 1 to 6. Students will practice their ball skills, learn techniques, and work on their match play. All levels are welcome. Monday September 28-Friday October 2, from 9am-12 noon at The International Montessori School of Beijing (MSB). RMB 1,000, RMB 250/day (MSB Students), RMB 1,300, RMB 300/day. Spaces are limited. To sign up, email athletics@msb.edu.cn

Heyrobics: New Location
There’s a new location for the Heyrobics Tuesday morning sessions. Every Tuesday from 8.45-9.45am, join Mary at The British School Beijing (BSB) Shunyi campus. The sessions are held in their multi-purpose room on the first floor. RMB 40 per session (members), RMB 50. For more information about Heyrobics, email beijing@heyrobics.com or WeChat: Heyrobics

Shout! Rock Choir
Get together with other music lovers and sing your heart out with the new season of Shout! Rock Choir. They take rock songs and arrange them into multi-section pieces ready for all abilities. Don’t worry if you think you can’t sing, the professional instructors from Imagine teach the group in a fun and supportive way. Every season ends in an exciting performance opportunity. First session is free. Rehearsals take place at Beijing Riviera, every Wednesday from 10.30am-12 noon. Sign up at www.imagine-china.com/shout-rock-choir.

O’Steak: New Lunch Sets
It’s important to have a proper lunch, but sometimes you’re too pushed for time. The new lunch sets at O’Steak offer a selection of more than 20 great value dishes. RMB 98 for two courses includes a soft drink or glass of wine. RMB 128 for three courses, including soft drink or wine plus one coffee or tea. The new lunch sets are available at all O’Steak restaurants, including Shine Hills.

O’Steak Shunyi
11, 102 Shine Hills, 9 Antai Avenue, Shunyi District, Beijing 8048 5080 北京市顺义区后沙峪安泰大街9号，祥云小镇南门，11号楼102

beijingkids Shunyi Correspondent Sally Wilson moved to Beijing in 2010 from the UK with her husband and son. Her daughter was born here in 2011 and both her kids keep her happily busy. In her spare time, Sally loves to stroll through Beijing’s hutongs and parks. She is a (most of the time) keen runner and loves reading: books, magazines, news, and celeb websites – anything really. Sally is also a bit of a foodie and loves trying out new restaurants.

Photos: Fabio Venni (Flickr), courtesy of Heyrobics and O’Steak

United Family Shunyi Clinic Extended Hours
To better serve their patients in the Shunyi community, the United Family Shunyi Clinic is now open until 9.30pm from Monday to Friday, and 7.30pm on Saturday and Sunday. Beijing United Family Hospital and Clinics (BJU) 24hr Service Center 4008 919191, Emergency 5927 7120 www.ufh.com.cn

Roundabout Book Fair
The next Roundabout book fair will take place on Saturday September 19, from 10am-3pm at Keystone Academy. Pick up some paperbacks from RMB 10, hardbacks RMB 20, and kid´s books RMB 1, with many languages and genres available. Every single RMB you pay will directly help a child in need. Keystone Academy is located directly opposite Subway Station Houshayu (Line 15).

The Great Aussie BBQ
Enjoy a fun filled day at Dulwich College Beijing (DCB) as the Beijing Bombers and Shanghai Tigers compete in the AFL China Cup Game. Saturday September 19, from 11.30am-4pm, come and watch the Australian and British communities clash in a thrilling 20-20 Cricket Match. There will be plenty of food and drinks, with BBQ meat and veggie options. Snacks from a range of local vendors will also be available, and the kids will be kept entertained with supervised activities throughout the day.

Members RMB 180, RMB 90 kids under 12, free for kids under 4, family package RMB 450 (2 x adult, 2 x children), non-members RMB 230/120/580. Price includes ‘All You Can Eat’ BBQ and salads, free flow beers, free transport to and from the Australian Embassy and DCB. RSVP: events@austcham.org. For more information, contact 6595 9252 or visit www.austcham.org/events/great-aussie-bbq-2015

Sew GORGEOUS Community Project
Back by popular demand, another Sew Gorgeous trip to the Muxiyuan Fabric Market. On Thursday September 17, you can join in whatever way suits you best – take the guided tour if you haven’t been before, or just peruse the many alleyways yourself using the handy Sew Gorgeous Market Map. The bus leaves from The British School of Beijing (BSB) Shunyi campus at 8.30am sharp, or you can meet the group directly at the market. It’s a fun day out, where you can stock up your sewing room or fill up your orders for the tailor. All proceeds from Muxiyuan Market Tours go towards the project’s Sewing Room at the Love & Hope Migrant School in Shunyi. RSVP sewgorgeous@yahoo.com

Mooncake Making Class
Bring your family for a traditional mooncake making class on Saturday September 26 or Sunday September 27, from 3-5pm at Green T. House. With hot chocolate, tea, and all the ingredients and instruction you need to make mooncakes. RMB 288 per family (up to 4 persons). To book, call 6434 2519, 136 0113 7232.

HEY @ the Clubhouse
Every Tuesday and Friday at 10am, keep fit and have fun at a Heyrobics class. Held in the gym at River Garden Villas, 7 Yuyang Road, Houshayu, Shunyi District. For more information, contact (8046 1918, Beijing@heyrobics.com) www.heyrobics.com

beijingkids Shunyi Correspondent Sally Wilson moved to Beijing in 2010 from the UK with her husband and son. Her daughter was born here in 2011 and both her kids keep her happily busy. In her spare time, Sally loves to stroll through Beijing’s hutongs and parks. She is a (most of the time) keen runner and loves reading: books, magazines, news, and celeb websites – anything really. Sally is also a bit of a foodie and loves trying out new restaurants.

Photos: Jasleen Kaur, Mike Haller, Franz & P (Flickr)

Zongzi is a Chinese snack made of glutinous rice stuffed with different fillings and wrapped in bamboo, reed, or other large leaves. They are traditionally eaten during the Dragon Boat Festival, which falls on June 2 this year. Making zongzi is a family event in which everyone helps out, so learn how to make them with Chinese Cooking Adventure.

If the holiday weekend sees you over-indulging in too much of the sticky stuff, get out to a Heyrobics workout. These sessions are fast, fun, and a fabulous way to get fit. Are your kids interested in mixed martial arts (MMA)? Sign them up for the Black Tiger Fight Club summer camp.

If you’ve yet to make decision about your children’s schooling for this fall, Harrow Beijing is having open mornings every Wednesday and Friday.

Zongzi Art Cooking Class
Learn how to make sticky rice cakes and take them home with you after class. Registration required. RMB 100. 10am-noon or 2-4pm. 88 Shunhuang Lu, Shunyi District (186 1092 7120, cookingadventure@163.com)

Get Fit for the Summer
For a total body workout, join those Swedes in pink at Heyrobics for a fun-filled fitness session. All classes are accompanied with music and huge amount of energy from the enthusiastic instructors. Intensity levels vary, but all moves are simple to follow, effective, and fun. Each session is aimed at training the whole body with a warm-up, cardio, strength, and agility training. This week’s classes are at 8.45am on Friday, May 30 on the River Garden Lawn and 9am on Saturday, May 31 at the Swedish School.

Heyrobics also offers a Core class focusing on core strength. This week’s Core class is 8.45am on Thursday, May 29 at River Garden. For a complete list of times, see the Heyrobics website.

Harrow Weekly Open Mornings
Harrow International School Beijing is now offering weekly open houses every Wednesday and Friday at 9.15am. The tour starts at 9.30am, followed by a Q&A session. To reserve your spot, register by contacting Admissions at 6444 8900 ext 6900 or admissions@harrowbeijing.cn.

MMA Summer Camp
Black Tiger Fight Club is holding its first kids’ summer camp. The mixed martial arts (MMA) camp will include kickboxing, jiujitsu, and wrestling. As well as learning the various techniques and exercises, the kids will have fun and get fit at the same time. All classes are conducted in English by international Muay Thai and MMA coaches. Suitable for ages 8-13, the summer camp will run from June 23- 27 from 11am-3pm. RMB 2,500 per person (lunch included). To sign up, call 139 1071 2576 or email info@blacktigerclub.com.

beijingkids Shunyi Correspondent Sally Wilson moved to Beijing in 2010 from the UK with her husband and son. Her daughter was born here in 2011 and both her kids keep her happily busy. In her spare time, Sally loves to stroll through Beijing’s hutongs and parks. She is a (most of the time) keen runner and loves reading: books, magazines, news, and celeb websites – anything really. Sally is also a bit of a foodie and loves trying out new restaurants.

Photos: Courtesy of Black Tiger and Heyrobics, Allen Timonthy Chang 2005 (via Wikimedia Commons)

Heyrobics is in Shunyi, growing with gusto! A new class starting at the WAB indoor gym will run every Sunday beginning on October 21 from 4-5pm for only RMB 20 per session! Also, at the Swedish School in Gahood villas, come to the Friday classes beginning on October 19 from 9-10am. Stay tuned, BSB classes starting soon! E-mail shunyi@heyrobics.com for more information.

This past weekend there were two self-defense and fitness workshops held at Black Tiger Club near WAB, one for girls (ages 11-17) and one for women. Learning exercises designed to tone the body and develop agility, flexibility and strength, the program also teaches students to master the techniques in order to adapt them to real-life scenarios. There will be two more workshops – Sunday, October 21 from 3:30-5pm for women, and Saturday, October 27 from 3-4:30pm for girls. Cost is RMB 200 for the girls program and RMB 250 for the women’s program. For more information, e-mail info@blacktigerclub.com.

Dulwich College Beijing is proud to host The Diversity Project, a 7-day festival of music and learning designed to unite wide ranging and unique musicians from across the globe. From Monday, October 22 through the 28, the festival will feature recitals on each of the seven evenings coupled with master classes and clinics for students and professional development opportunities. Tickets for the festival are available at the Main Reception of Dulwich, Legend Garden Campus. E-mail diversity@dulwich-beijing.cn or call 6454 9000 for more information; check this blog for details.

MAC Time Community Art Center will once again host a Halloween party for kids ages 3-12 on Saturday, October 27 from 5:30-7:30pm. Come make a Halloween pumpkin jar, taste pumpkin soup and pizza, go trick-or-treating and more! Register before October 24; cost is RMB 220 per child. Call 8046 1820 or 138 1033 4208.

Green T. House Living in Shunyi offers a variety of culture and wellness classes for the remainder of October and November. From Chinese medicine to parenting to photography and more, there are many options and times available from which to choose. For an application and current class schedules, contact 135 2061 7887 or t.classes@green-t-house.com.

Kids+ in Pinnacle Avenue (next to A-Z Kids) has closed. The sign said they were moving to Pinnacle Plaza, so it appears they are combining inventory and just remaining at their original location.

Photo by NOAA’s National Ocean Service of flickr.