With quarantine regulations being removed and borders officially reopening on Jan 8, it feels like the end of an era. So what can we do to get out and about and say goodbye to 2022 and welcome long-awaited 2023? Here are our recommendations for events happening this week that are perfect for enjoying the last days of the year:

EPSON teamLab Massless Art Exhibition

This kid-friendly exhibition is finally back on and open for visitors every day except Mondays.
Becoming part of the artwork and understanding how alive the world around us really is is the main idea behind this awesome exhibition. There are floating clouds you can walk through, an infinite crystal universe to experience, and typhoon light balls that continuously move and change color when pushed by another light ball. One of the really awesome parts of the showcase is the Sketch Ocean exhibit, where visitors get to draw a fish on a special piece of paper and see their fish swim out into the ocean with fish drawn by others! Tickets for the interactive exhibition can be purchased for RMB 99, and are free for kids under 2. The exhibit will run from Dec 24 until Jan 20 at Chaoyang Joy City. To purchase tickets, click here: https://art.team-lab.cn/en/e/masslessbeijing/

Where: Joy City Mall (Chaoyang)
When: Dec 24-Jan 20
Tuesday to Friday: 10.30am-6pm (no admission past 5pm)
Weekends and Holidays: 10.30am-8pm (no admission past 7pm)
Price: RMB 99 Flash Sale Ticket (visit available until Dec 31, 2022), RMB 158 Early Bird Ticket (visit available until Jan 20), free for kids under 2

Beijing Postcards: A Crash Course to the Forbidden City

Join Beijing Postcards on the year’s last walk through history on Dec 31. They saved the best for last as this time you’ll be learning facts and stories about the imperial palace, its treasures, and secrets that have surrounded it for centuries. The tour will start at 1pm and end at 4.30pm with a glass of bubbly on top of Coal Hill in Jingshan Park. The price is RMB 385/person and RMB 210/kid 7-12.

Where: Start from Donghuamen, outside of TRB Forbidden City
When: Dec 31, 1pm-4.30pm
Price: RMB 385/person and RMB 210/kid 7-12

The Hutong Open Table – New Year’s Eve Dinner

A perfect way to end the year is by spending it with friends and family with a delicious selection of New Year’s Eve party picks at one of Beijing’s many family-friendly dinners. The Hutong Open Table starts at 7pm on Dec 31 and costs RMB 568 for non-members, RMB 458 for members, and RMB 288 for children under 13. The feast will be served family-style, so if you still haven’t made plans for New Year’s Eve Dinner, you can scan the code on the poster to book your table at The Hutong.

Where: The Hutong
When: Dec 31, 7pm-9.30pm
Price: RMB 568/non-members, RMB 458/members and RMB 288/children under 13.

Images: Courtesy of the organizers, Pexels

Attention! Attention! This is a public service announcement!

This is the time of year when, like caterpillars transforming into butterflies, your friends and families will start drafting soliloquies titled ‘new year, new me’ and flooding your social media timeline. This is also the time of year when they might call you to account for the person you have been throughout this year and inquire on the grand changes you plan to make to your life to be a better person in the new year, no matter what shape or form that might come in. In other words ladies and gentlemen, this is New Year’s Resolution season! But the question is, despite our best intentions and efforts, do New Year’s resolutions actually work or do they best us each year?

Beijingkids posed this question to Mina Yan – Managing Editor of beijingkids and new mom of one,  He Siyu  – beijingkids head of HR and mom of adorable twins, Dave Hanssen – photographer and dad of two, and Hannah Northcott – Beijing mom and co-founder of WellWomen, middle school drama, dance teacher, and theater director at International School of Beijing (ISB), on what the good, the bad, and the ugly are when it comes to the infamous New Year’s Resolutions, and the answers were open, honest and quite amusing!

Mina Yan and daughter Aria

Beijingkids: What do you believe the secret to making and keeping realistic New Year’s resolutions is?

Mina Yan: In the past, my resolutions have always been something generic like losing weight and I’ve never been able to keep them for more than a few months. I think this year I’m going to set the same resolution but also give myself a target to reach like how many kilos to lose so that there’s a goal to work towards.

Dave Hanssen: I think the secret to keeping a New Years resolution is to not make one, why wait to make changes that you want to make on January 1st, why not start now?

He Siyu: My secret is making it step by step, lots of tiny New Year’s resolutions are easier to make and keep.

Hannah Northcott: 2021 is an extraordinary year. We’re still living through what feels like a never-ending cycle of COVID cases and waking-up to a new year unfortunately is not the magic wand that will make all of our problems go away.

So what do we do? Give yourself more time.

Bill Gates shared that “Most people overestimate what they can do in one year and underestimate what they can do in ten years.”

Instead of making a new year’s resolution,  what if you dream of the truest, most beautiful version of yourself, your life, and your relationships that you can imagine in ten years?

Dream big and write it all down. You don’t have to share it with anyone. It’s for you.

What would the winter of 2031 look like? How would you start your day? Where do you live? Who do you live with? What do you do? How do the things look and smell like, around you?

Debbie Millman, one of the most influential designers of today teaches about the “Ten Year Plan for a Remarkable Life.” Check out the writing prompt that she uses in the Tim Ferris Podcast

Being honest about where you’re at and gaining clarity on where you want to go, will give you a compelling reason to stick with your goals or new year’s resolution.

He Siyu

Bjk: What are some good, bad, and outright crazy resolutions you made in 2019 rolling into 2020?

MY: Well… I wanted to be more social and go to the gym more but 2020 put a dent in those plans.

DH: For 2019 I didn’t make any resolutions

HSY: Moving into a bigger apartment. (Failed). Everything about my kids goes well. (Succeeded). Be rich. (Failed)

HN: I wanted to learn five new dishes and made three – mango salsa, mango refrigerated cake, and colored pancakes. I’m like the equivalent of a twelve-year-old in the kitchen but perhaps adding to my culinary repertoire can be a goal in 2021 (this is where my husband, Steve will insert a joke about my many adventures in the kitchen or the lack of it…)

On the flip side, one of the things that I journaled in 2019 was, “I will make mornings magical.”

My friend Rebecca and I, created and practiced a daily routine called Magical Morning early in 2020 to get us through our lowest point of COVID and since then have shared it with other women through blog posts and a virtual course.

Hannah Northcott with her adorable daughters

Bjk: What has 2020 taught you about New Year’s resolutions?

MY: 2020 made me realize that I don’t need to go big to keep to my resolutions. For example, if I want to work out more I don’t need to splurge on a super expensive gym membership. Youtube videos work just fine as long as I can set a clear goal to follow.

DH: 2020 has taught me that there is no time like the present to make a change, no need to wait till January 1st, 2021.

HSY: “Be rich” never comes true.

HN: I learned to be adaptable and flexible – to let go of control, especially on the things that I had no control over because the way we dealt with the uncertainty of the global pandemic affected our peace and joy.

Dave Hanssen, his sons, and their cat. Can’t forget the cat

Bjk: What is your biggest New Year’s resolution moving into the year 2021?

MY: To lose the pregnancy weight and to find a balance between my job and family life.

DH: My biggest New Years resolution for 2021 is to not make a New Years resolution

HSY: Same as 2020, moving into a bigger apartment with my family.

HN: From someone who used to be on the “go big or go home train,” I want to make subtle shifts to becoming an essentialist – to choose what matters and let go of the things that no longer align with my mind, body, heart, and soul.

KEEP READING: New Year’s Resolution: The Good, the Bad, and the Truly Hilarious! (Part 1)

Photos: Courtesy of Mina Yan, Dave Hansen, Hannah Northcott, He Siyu, Unsplash

Buy 1 Pizza Get 1 Free at Miam Miam

A delicious fresh pizza pie with warm baked dough, salty tomato sauce, and gooey cheese is a delight for the senses. To make the deal even sweeter, Miam Miam is a proud partner of Bethel China. Every time a guest orders a margarita pizza or anything from the children’s menu, Miam Miam makes a donation to Bethel’s “Love is Blind” project.

All ages. 
Every Monday from 10.30am to 10pm
No. 40, B1, Ground Floor, Fenghuanghui Shopping Center, No. 5, Shuguang Xilijia (near Sanyuanqiao station), Chaoyang District
 曙光西里甲5号凤凰汇购物中心地下一层B1 40号
8436 7501

New Year’s Eve Dinner & Dance at the Brickyard

Imagine ringing in the new year at the Great Wall. Join in the early birds family dinner from 5:30pm or the night owls revelers’ dinner with live jazz from 9:30pm. On New Year’s Day, there will also be a jazz brunch. Enjoy a special rate of RMB 2,888, which includes private transfers from/to Beijing for two people, a superior queen Great Wall view room, New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner & Dance at the Brickyard for two people, and breakfast for two in the Lodge. As a guest, you’ll have full privileges to soak in the Great Wall view Jacuzzi as well as enjoy the Garden and Health Center.

31 Dec 2019 from 5:30pm-11:30pm
The Brickyard Retreat Center at Mutianyu Great Wall – 100m South of Yingbeigou Cun Huairou District; 怀柔区 怀柔区营北沟村南100米
All-Inclusive package RMB 2,888, RMB 398 per adult, RMB 198 for kids between 4-12 years, Free for children under 4 years old

Make a reservation by email info@brickyardatmutianyu.com or phone 6162 6506.

The Orchid Lodge Holiday Brunch
Celebrate the holidays with a festive brunch at Orchid Lodge on New Year’s Day (January 1st). RMB 388 gets you a delicious festive brunch, served family-style, with drinks included.

For more information, including full menu, extract the QR code in the image.
Ages 10+
 1 Jan 2020 RMB 388
65 Baochao Hutong, Dongcheng District
 东城区宝钞胡同65号
8404 4818

Calligraphy Workshop for Adults and Children

Join Cultural Keys for their regular monthly calligraphy workshop where you will learn the history and basics of Chinese calligraphy as well as writing characters on red paper to get ready for Spring Festival (Chinese New Year).   Included in the price is a presentation (in English) on the language and history of Chinese calligraphy, a dumpling lunch, the workshop itself, all materials, snacks, and tea while you write, as well as free time to explore Xiaopu Artists Village, located within the Songzhuang Art District.

All ages
4 Jan 2020 from 11am-3:30pm
191 (North Gate A), Xiaopu North Road Xiaopu Village, Songzhuang, Tongzhou
RMB 258 / RMB 488 for 2 People
WeChat: AJDonnelly or email events@culturekeys.cn.

Roundabout Volunteer Potluck Luncheon

Roundabout Volunteer invites you to this year’s potluck Luncheon. Start the New Year with a warm, fun and informative lunch around like-minded individuals. Learn more about the Roundabout Volunteer program and how you might be able to get involved. Just bring a dish. Cutlery and crockery shall be provided along with an assortment of drinks. Invite others who are interested in volunteering programs. Be sure to RSVP in order to book your place before January 8.

All ages. 
10 Jan 2020 from 11am-2pm. 
Free. 
Cathay View Plaza No.2 Xiangjiang Beilu, Chaoyang District 
北京市朝阳区香江北路2号观唐广场

Photos: Courtesy of Organizers

The entire beijingkids team

wishes you and your family

a happy New Year!

We hope that 2019 brings plenty of

new opportunities and new adventures to you

in this bustling city we call home.

Photo: Matheus Bertelli via Pexels

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!

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. 

Ho ho ho! Getting ready for Christmas dining?
We’ve got you covered with these family-friendly options.

Winter Camps

Christmas Camp: Discover Chinese Arts at Art+798, Dec 24-28
Looking for a different way for your kids to celebrate Christmas? Art+798 International Education Center holds a five-day Christmas camp, wherein kids get a chance to immerse themselves in various Chinese arts like painting, drama, shadow play, as well as ancient architecture. The camp also includes two field trips to the 798 and 751 Art and Design Districts and the Forbidden City. All ages. RMB 5,800 (including materials and lunch). ART+798 International Education Center.

The SLab Kids’ Winter Camp: Metalsmithing 101, Dec 26-28
The SLab’s Metalsmithing 101 winter camp gives an opportunity to older kids and students with no prior experience to learn how to pierce, saw, and finish metal pieces. At the camp, kids will work with brass and silver to create their own jewelry or accessories just in time to wear for the New Year. All classes will be taught in English. Ages 12+. RMB 1,888 (lunch included). 10am-4pm. The SLab.

Kids’ Winter Camp for Sewing, Dec 26-28
Do you admire others with unique handmade bags and wonder where they come from or how to DIY one yourself? The SLab is holding a winter camp focused on sewing to teach kids how to design a stylish bag of their own. Kids. RMB 1,800 (covers all materials). 10am-4pm, Dec 26-28. The Slab space. 2/F, Bldg 2, 7 Xinzhong Jie, Dongcheng, District.

Taekwondo for Kids at W Prime, Dec 29, and all Sat of Jan
Have fun and learn the martial art of taekwondo with instructor Nordine. She leads classes for kids 7-13 years old every Saturday from 10-11am. Try a class for free and pay RMB 80 per class after. Registration is required. Scan the QR code in the image to connect with Nordine. Ages 7-13. 10-11am. Adult classes take place every Sunday 4-5pm until Jan 27. RMB 80. Beijing Four Seasons Hotel.

Atelier Winter Art Camps, various dates in Dec
The Atelier team has created a special series of holiday-themed workshops mixing art, architecture, painting, history, culture, and history. Discover Venice and its Carnival, explore a revolutionary artistic movement or step into the world of Native Americans. Workshop 2: A Journey to the World of Native Americans (Dec 24, Dec 26-29) Learn how to draw animals, make Native American totems and animal symbols, and create teepee models. Workshop 3: Venice and Its Carnival (Dec 31, Jan 2-5) Create a mask inspired by the Venetian masks and learn to sketch a landscape (veduta) with perspective. For ages 5-7: 10am-noon, RMB 2,000. For ages 8+: 1-3.30pm, RMB 2,500. Atelier Sanlitun and Shunyi. (www.atelier.cn.com)

New Year’s Eve Performances

Chicago Symphony Orchestra at the NCPA, Dec 25-26
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra, which is consistently hailed as one of the world’s leading orchestras, is holding a concert conducted by Richardo Muti. In addition, the program will present works from prominent composers like Brahms, Tchaikovsky, and Rimsky-Korsakov. All ages. Visit this page for tickets. 7.30pm. National Centre For The Performing Arts (NCPA).

Swan Lake by Kiev Ballet in Beijing, Dec 30
Kiev Ballet, also known as the National Ballet of Ukraine, performs works of classical ballet and tours internationally. It currently has 24 ballets in its repertoire, one of the largest in the world, and has had many notable dancers among its members. Catch Kiev Ballet perform Swan Lake at the Great Hall of the People on December 30. All ages. RMB 280-1,280 (VIP). 7.30-10pm. Great Hall of the People.

Viennese New Year’s Concert, Dec 30
The Vienna Classical Symphony Orchestra is set to appear at the National Library Concert Hall under the direction of Leo Wittner for a “Christmas in Vienna” performance. The program will mix Chinese folk songs and Austrian classical works by Mozart, Offenbach, and Strauss. All ages. RMB 380-880 (buy tickets here). 7.30 pm-9.30pm, Dec 30. National Library Concert Hall. 33 Zhongguancunnan Da Jie, Haidian, District. 中关村南大街33号

NCPA New Year’s Chime Concert, Dec 31
The annual NCPA New Year’s Chime Concert rings in the New Year with melodious music on December 31. Zhang Yi, the President of China National Symphony Orchestra, will conduct the National Ballet of China Symphony Orchestra and mezzo-soprano Zhu Huiling, presenting Chinese and foreign classics to embrace the new year. All ages. RMB 200-1,080 (buy tickets here). 11pm. National Centre for the Performing Arts.

Photos: freestocks.org (featured) and rawpixel.com via Pexels; courtesy of event organizers

Dine and Countdown (Dec 31)

New Year’s Eve Full Buffet Dinner at Feast (Food by EAST)
RMB 488 per person. 5.30-10pm.

All ages. Feast (Food by EAST) has prepared lavish holiday selections, which include your favorite seafood, whole roast turkeys, hams and cuts of meat hot and delicious from the oven, great desserts and much more. Gather loved ones and friends to celebrate New Year’s and welcome 2018 at EAST. Free-flow soft drinks, coffee, tea, beer, house wine and sparkling wine are included or indulge in our Möet & Chandon Champagne package for an additional RMB 198 per person. Feast (Food by EAST). (8414 9888)

New Year’s Eve at Kerry’s Kitchen
RMB 498 per person / RMB 798 per person for additional beverage and champagne package. 5.30-11pm

All ages. Complete your New Year’s Eve Buffet Dinner with lavish choices of seafood on ice, sashimi and sushi, Asian and Western mains, roasts, meats, desserts and more. The Savor Latino Band comprising of musicians from New York and Venezuela will perform various types of music such as jazz, blues, rock, hip-hop, and ballads to keep everyone entertained. If you are feeling lucky, the grand prize of an accommodation stay at Shangri-La Hotel, Chiang Mai may be yours to win. The dinner also includes access to Adventure Zone for your child. Kerry’s Kitchen (8565 2088)

Let’s Count Down 2018 Together @ Swissôtel Beijing
9pm-1am

Adults. Indulge in the relaxed atmosphere, sipping champagne, and waiting at the Flow Lounge & Bar for the year of 2018 to come. Anyone can choose from French Champagne Moët and Chandon (RMB 688 per bottle) or Sparkling Wine De Bortoli (RMB 288 per bottle). The prices include 10 percent service charge and 6 percent VAT. Swissôtel Beijing – The Flow Lounge & Bar (Call 6553 2288/2107 for reservations)

New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Dinner Party @ Modernista
RMB 360 (dinner set per person), RMB 520 (dinner set plus free flow Prosecco per person). 7-10pm

Adults. Everything is ready for one more scrumptious holiday fiesta at 44 Baochao Hutong. Together with the special concerts on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, Modernista’s kitchen is also offering a new deliciously tailored NY menu for those looking forward spending this special time with them. Expect real homemade Foie Grass, exquisite Lobster Bisque, and Black Truffle Ravioli on the table, together with lots of sparkling wine and smooth entertainment. Call 136 9142 5744 for reservations. Modernista.

New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner at Jing
RMB 980 (per person). 6.30-10.30pm

Adults. Celebrate the dawn of a new year in chic culinary style at Jing with a celebratory six-course dinner crafted by Chef de Cuisine Julien Cadiou. Inspired by the finest ingredients from around the world, Chef Julien’s culinary celebration features unique creations, such as king crab salad with citrus dressing and oscietra caviar. Australian beef tenderloin is served with truffle mash potato and Perigeux sauce, and black cod is perfectly paired with roasted tiger prawn, organic vegetable, and truffle consommé. A delightful dessert of Champagne mousse with dark chocolate cream and berry gelée sets a joyful scene to kick-start the new year festivities. As the midnight countdown commences, diners can raise a Champagne toast, while enjoying music from a DJ set guaranteed to fill the ambiance at Jing Bar. Served at Jing on 31 December 2017, with two seating at 6.30pm and 8.30pm. Price includes soft drinks and one glass of champagne. To make a reservation, email jingpbj@peninsula.com, or call 6510 6707. All prices are subject to a surcharge. Jing (The Peninsula Beijing).

Celebrate New Year’s Eve @ Fiume
RMB 400 (per person). Starts 6pm

Adults. Fiume offers a five-course set dinner focused on the traditional recipes of Emilia Romagna at RMB 400 (per person) with an optional pairing with 5 Italian wines at RMB 250 (per person). Moreover, a great promotion on Franciacorta, the Best Italian Bubbles, is ongoing all night, together with a-la-carte wines and drinks to turn your Eve in a big festive night. Only 30 seats available. For the detailed menu and inquiries visit www.thegoodfoodgroup.asia or email fiume.beijing@gmail.com or call 6501 9878. Fiume.

New Year Eve at Migas Mercado
RMB 560 (per person). 6pm-2am

Adults. This year Migas Mercado will celebrate its first New Year with some festive, traditional, Mediterranean style New Year dishes: smoked yellowtail, roasted codfish and more! Besides their Mediterranean New Year’s Eve meals, they will also follow Migas’ traditions with plenty of drinks and great music and grapes with the New Year’s Eve countdown! Champagne specials and music from their guest DJ until late. Migas Mercado. (6500 7579, hola@migasbj.com)

Countdown Party – Pirates Night at XIAN
Free admission and includes one welcome drink. Starts 8pm

All ages. The Black Pearl has sailed into XIAN this year and the tropical winds have carried with them a crew of party pirates. Feel the sand between your toes and enjoy our festive Caribbean rum cocktails. So dust off your eye patch and three-pointed hat and do your best Captain Jack Sparrow, let’s sail into 2018 in style at XIAN! Entry is free and includes a welcome drink and unlimited bad pirate jokes. XIAN at EAST Beijing. (8414 9810)

Start 2018 with These Activities

New Year’s Day Rehab Brunch @ Beersmith
RMB 198. 11am-3pm.

All ages. Recover from your New Year’s Eve indulgences with a sumptuous, healthy, and invigorating brunch at Beersmith. Enjoy a spectacular range of salads, seafood, cold cuts, roasted prime seasoned meats Australian rib, lamb, chicken, exquisite cheeses, fruits, and deserts. Sit back and eat along reviving brunch at leisure, at your own pace, at Beersmith. Children 0-6 years old no extra charge, one child per paying adult; children 6-12 years old enjoy 50 percent off. For booking inquiries, call 6505 2277 ext. 6610 or email hellobeijing@hoteljen.com. Beersmith Gastropub.

New Year’s Day Brunch at Kerry’s Kitchen
RMB 488 (per person), RMB 688 (additional beverage package per person). Noon-3.30pm.

All ages. Kerry’s Kitchen’s Refreshing Start 2018 Buffet Brunch is the best way to start the year with an extensive menu of holiday-themed dishes including fresh seafood display, a carving station, salads, along with breakfast favorites and sweet desserts. After a heavy meal, burn off the energy at Adventure Zone, a paradise with interactive games, slides, and play modules for kids to play and create. Kerry’s Kitchen (8565 2088)

New Year’s Day at the Great Wall
RMB 98-198, Noon-9pm

All ages. Come out to Mutianyu and start 2018 with fresh air and blue skies. The Brickyard Retreat Center will be serving a special New Year’s Day supper menu from noon-8pm with live jazz in their cozy lodge from noon-3pm. The Brickyard is an eco retreat with 25 guest rooms located in the foothills of Mutianyu Great Wall. Make it a real getaway and spend the night with us! Lodging guests have full privileges at their outdoor jacuzzi open year round, spa, and gardens. For more information about the menu and book online: https://yoopay.cn/event/newyearsday2018. The Brickyard Retreat Center at Mutianyu Great Wall.  (brickyardatmutianyu.com)

Be Active and Burn Those Holiday Calories Off

Great Wall NYE 2017 Presents: Great Wall Snow Festival (Dec 30-31)
RMB 260 (shuttle bus + festival + ski presale price), other prices available

Kids 12+ and adults. A festival filled with fresh air, blue skies, black runs, and white-hot parties… Great Wall Snow Festival will also see a return of everyone’s favorite activities including: Rave on Snow, Go Skiing, Human Bowling, Snowball Fights, as well as the introduction of Mountainside Bottomless Brunches and Feast’s on the Piste. Day and Night are spent skiing and enjoying music on mountaintop stages. This is regarded by many as The Greatest Mystical and Musical Party on snow in the most unique venue imaginable. Ticket prices: RMB 180 (shuttle bus, festival + ski; early bird), RMB 260 (shuttle bus + festival + ski presale price), RMB 540 (buy 3 get 1 for free – festival + ski); RMB 250 (festival + ski door price). Prices include skiing tickets, skis/snowboard, ski poles, ski boots. For other amenities, visitors will pay for snow clothes (RMB 40), helmet (RMB 25), lockers (RMB 25), and a deposit of RMB 300. To book, visit this page.

Ring in the New Year at Our Cozy Retreat by the Great Wall (Dec 31)
RMB 388 (adults), RMB 188 (kids 4-12), free for kids under 4. 10pm-2am

Kids 4-12, adults. Join The Brickyard Retreat Center for their 9th annual New Year’s Eve Dinner and Dance by the Great Wall at Mutianyu. There’s also a special package of RMB 2,888, which Includes private transfers from/to Beijing for two people, New Year’s Eve in a superior queen Great Wall view room, New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner and Dance at the Brickyard for two people, and breakfast for two. As a guest you’ll have full privileges to soak in the Great Wall view Jacuzzi as well as enjoy the Garden and Health Center. To view the menu and book online, visit this page.

New Year Holiday’s Tour: Cuandixia Ancient Village Visit (Jan 1)
RMB 550 (includes transportation, entry fee, water, lunch, and guides)

Huanghuacheng-Zhuangdaokou Lakeside Great Wall Hiking (every Sat until Feb 24)
RMB 450 (includes transportation, entry fee, water, lunch, and guides)

Kids 10+ and adults. Explore the unique lakeside Great Wall which is off the beaten path. Walk on both restored and unrestored authentic wild Great Wall: an excellent chance for you to compare and contrast what the wall may have looked like when they were originally finished, and how it looks after about 600 years of exposure to the elements. The hike is fit for family with kids; home-made Chinese lunch at a local farmer’s guest house. Hiking date is every Sat until Feb 24. Meet 8.30 am at Exit B of Tuanjiehu station of Subway Line 10. For more info about the hike or make a reservation, visit  http://www.chinatravellers.com/Action_Show.asp?id=6. China Travellers. (188 0133 5578, info@chinatravellers.com)

Photos: holiho via Pixabay; courtesy of East Beijing, Kerry’s Kitchen, Jing (The Peninsula Beijing), Fiume, The Brickyard Retreat Center, Great Wall NYE 2017

As another winter beckons, NUO has a feast of activities and culinary surprises to keep you warm and festive. Join them to welcome in 2018 with fun, food, and decadent drinks.

Wave goodbye to 2017 with a sumptuous Seafood Mania lunch buffet at N’Joy (RMB 358 per person, option to add free-flow Deutz Champagne for RMB 288 per person) or a celebratory dinner buffet (RMB 698 per person, including free-flow fresh juice, soft drinks, beer, and house wine, option to add free-flow Deutz Champagne for RMB 288 per person).

On New Year’s Day, great the coming year with a smile while enjoying a full brunch buffet (RMB 498 per person, including free-flow fresh juice, soft drinks, beer, and house wine, option to add free-flow Deutz Champagne for RMB 288 per person).

If you prefer to celebrate the local way, JIA Restaurant is offering Chinese-inspired New Year’s set lunch and dinner menus, starting from RMB 4,880 per table of six to eight people.

Finally, if you want to see out the last hours of 2017 with a drink in hand surrounded by fellow classy party animals, then head to O’Bar’s countdown party (entry RMB 150, 8pm-late).

View a full list of all the wonderful New Year’s events on offer below:

All prices are subject to service charge and tax. Please note, tickets for brunch/dinner at N’Joy must be pre-booked. For more information or to make a reservation, please follow NUO’s official WeChat account (nuohotelbeijing) or call 5926 8281

This post is provided by NUO Hotel Beijing
Photos courtesy of NUO Hotel Beijing

Some people prefer to commemorate the final moments of the year with solemnity, in a hushed and intimate environment. Others prefer their New Year’s Eve countdown clocks big and gaudy, thronged by hysterical crowds. To each their own, we say.

Either way, you’ve gotta eat, right? We’ve put together some options for dining out on the last day of 2011 as well as the first day of 2012. To find out more, and for your chance to win New Year’s Eve dinner for two at the St. Regis Beijing, keep reading.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31

Agua
Ring in the New Year with the culinary stylings of Chef Jordi. RMB 381 (5 courses), RMB 528 (6 courses). Reserve for either 6pm or 8.30pm. Agua (5208 6188)

Apothecary
A countdown party that includes light snacks. Groups of 4 or more get a free bottle of Champagne. RMB 260. 10pm. Apothecary (5208 6040)

Before the New Year
Start your evening with a buffet seafood dinner accompanied by live entertainment and lucky draws. RMB 268+15% (includes beer, juice and soft drinks), kids 6-12 half price. 6-10pm. BLD Café, Renaissance Beijing Capital Hotel (5863 8223)

To read more, head over to thebeijinger.com.