Clubs come in all shapes and sizes in order to fit the unique needs of students. They allow young people to expand, nurture, and develop leadership skills or other talents that might be neglected in their normal curriculum. Whether it be athletic, academic, or creative, these clubs offer students the perfect opportunities to connect with others who have the same interests and do so in an atmosphere that is very focused and passion driven.

Here are some examples of a couple clubs that are available to students from any school, along with some valuable insight about these clubs from active members. In our process of seeking out these clubs, we also learned about a couple of instances of students building their own groups focused on either a particular interest or a service to the community that wasn’t yet being offered through their school. They explain a bit of the process to help those wanting to get the ball rolling at their own school.

We hope you find this to be a helpful primer for learning about some of the great afterschool activities this city has to offer, and it encourages you to try something new.

Imagine

Imagine is a British organization based in Beijing, offering a variety of action and adventure-based activities year-round, all in English. They are also well known amongst the international and bilingual schools community for survival camps, parkour training, ski trips, school trips, team-building outings, sailing camps, and the annual school snowsports championships known as ISSCC.

Joshua Ai

Imagine is a unique organization providing kids with a great opportunity to participate in a variety of outdoor activities. Give us a brief introduction of some of the activities you have done with Imagine.
So far, we have loved participating in their water camps, parkour training, survival classes, ski camps, and bubble football.

What first inspired you to get involved in the range of extreme sports offered through Imagine?
I guess it would be how fun all of the activities are, such as their Civilization Games. All of these activities were pretty new to me. I learned lots of new games and was able to try many new sports that weren’t being offered at school.

What are some of the most memorable experiences you’ve had with Imagine?
Last winter, I won three gold medals at International Schools Snowsports Championships of China (ISSCC) ski race in the Giant Slalom, Dual Slalom, and Freestyle categories. Plus, this past summer I went to the Water Camp hosted by Imagine and loved jumping from the boat.

Tell us about some of the most important skills you’ve learned through your participation.
From their parkour classes I learned how to do a front flip, and in their fun ski classes, I’ve learned lots of new freestyle tricks. Most importantly I’ve also enjoyed the opportunities I’ve had to collaborate with and get to know other kids.

Do you have any advice for newcomers to Imagine?
Be brave at the beginning and you’ll find plenty of excitement with the coaches’ help. It’s also a great opportunity to meet new friends with similar interests in the sports being offered.

For more information, email info@imagine-china.com 

Sports Beijing

Founded in 1999, Sports Beijing is an organization that connects students and parents with a variety of interesting athletic opportunities for all skill levels and age groups. They seek to retain the essential spirit of community and volunteerism in their recreational programs where there is an emphasis on participation, fun, and learning the basic skills. But they also recognize the appetite amongst young athletes for higher-level training and competition with qualified professionals and ‘match play’ teams across many programs.

Nicole LeCren

How long have you been playing hockey?
13-years. I love it! My dad works for a hockey brand called Bauer. Since the Olympics are coming to Beijing, it has been his job to help people gear up. Also, the government has been building up hockey facilities and encouraging people to give it a try.

What is Sports Beijing doing to help build this interest in hockey?
We cooperate with Sports Beijing because they have this really developed base of people already interested in sports. If we tried to start a hockey class on our own, it might be hard to get students. But since they have this huge community of people, it has been helpful in getting kids out to try our class.

What’s the class you offer through Sports Beijing like?
All of the kids starting off can’t skate or have likely never played hockey before, and we help them build confidence, and start them off with a lot of beginner-friendly scrimmages. Usually, a standard class will be about an hour long of teaching the basics of hockey, then we will have a scrimmage game for about 15 minutes to encourage the kids. Usually, kids come in for about one or two semesters to learn the basics then we send them off to a more competitive club. Hockey gets pretty intense, so our program is just to help kids to have fun with the sport.

What are some of the positive changes you’ve seen in the kids taking your hockey class?
It’s really cool to see the kids come in being very shy at the beginning of the semester, and then by the end, they open up and learn about teamwork and sharing, which are both very important in hockey.

For more information, contact activities@sportsbj.com 

Sunshine Studios

As one of Europe’s largest dance studios, Sunshine Dance offers dance classes for beginners and advanced students alike. The primary instructor here in Beijing is Jerry Tse. Having trained all over the world, including London, Hong Kong, and LA, with some of the industry’s top choreographers, he has gone on to become a choreographer and teacher himself. He’s worked with many big stars, and TV shows, and now spends most of his time flying around the world teaching courses and masterclasses sharing the knowledge he has gained in the industry.

Deniz Guven

What is Sunshine Studios?
Sunshine Studios is a big, international dance company that was founded in Beijing by Jerry Tse. For me, I like how it is international with branches across China and the UK. We practice twice a week, mainly in the style of street dance and hip-hop mixed together. It’s really cool!

How has this experience helped you to develop your love for dancing?
Dancing with Jerry is so different from what I’ve experienced with any of the dance teachers I’ve had before. He’s so passionate about it, and he inspires me because of his attention to detail. It also doesn’t hurt that he’s crazy good at dancing. I think with him teaching me, it has made me love dancing even more.

Do you ever get to choreograph or create dance routines of your own?
First, for the basic stuff, Jerry choreographs it for us, but we are able to add our input for what we think would be cool and he helps us to connect our imaginations with his to make it happen.

What is the typical practice like?
We get into class, and we first have a short workout comprised of sit-ups, pushups, and planking. Then we do some stretching and start dancing. Sundays are typically our longer classes, so we do the workouts and stretching, then we do some warmups and leg exercises. You need to be fit for dancing.

What would you like newcomers to know about Sunshine Studios?
The class community is super tight. Everybody is friends, and it doesn’t matter what age or level you’re at. We all support each other and want to grow together. It’s a safe space, where you don’t need to feel like you are good or bad at this, and everybody is learning together.

For more information, email enquires@sunshine-studios.co.uk

Photo: Courtesy of Imagine and Sports Beijing
A complete version of this article appeared on p44-48 of the beijingkids September 2018 Teen Takeover issue.

Sports Beijing will be running their biannual Festival of Sports at the International School of Beijing (ISB) Fusion Indoor Dome on Saturday August 25 from 10am-3pm.

The event caters for all young sports fans in the city. Kids will be able to try out all kinds of sports in which Sports Beijing offer training, including basketball, soccer, rugby, karate, and lacrosse, to just name a few, before making a commitment to any of them.

The festival will also be a great chance for parents to get more detailed course information by talking to the coaches, as well as to get more connected with the community.

This biannual event is a kick-off for their Fall sporting season, when over 12 programs will be on offer. Kids aged four and above can register for one or more of the activities.

Sports Beijing is a not-for-profit community sports organization for junior athletes in Beijing. They offer a broad variety of recreational and competitive youth sports programs, professionally coached and aimed at developing physical, technical and social skills. Their activities are designed for participants of all backgrounds and abilities. For information regarding this event and their Fall programs,please email info@sportsbj.com or call 8046 2822.

Sports Beijing’s Festival of Sport 

10am-3pm. Free entrance. ISB Dome (10 Anhua Jie, Shunyi District 顺义区安华街10号)

Photos: courtesy of Sports Beijing

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.

Family Fun

Samajam Kids Show -You Are the Show! In Beijing, Fri-Sun until Jul 1
All ages. Samajam Kids Show is a new concept, a participatory musical show, in which all participants receive several musical instruments during the performance. RMB 180-350 (visit this page to buy tickets). 10.30am. Tianqiao Arts Center. (400 610 3721, 1010 3721, ponypiao@aliyun.cn)

America’s Backyard BBQ: AmCham China 2018 Independence Day Party, Jun 30
All ages. AmCham China invites everyone to celebrate American Independence Day on Saturday, June 30 at JW Marriott Hotel’s buffet restaurant, terrace and newly renovated garden. This Saturday backyard BBQ lunch offers America’s best treats and snacks to celebrate the 242nd Independence Day of the US. RMB 550 (adult), RMB 250 (child). For tickets, visit this page. 11am-8pm. JW Marriott.

Little Kickers Beijing Football Trial Class, until Jun 30
Kids 1.5+. These trial sessions take place every Saturday and are play-oriented for kids aged from 1.5 to 5. Everybody is welcome to experience a series of football games in a fun environment. Class times: 9.15-10am (ages 1.5-2.5), 10.15-11am (2.5-3.5), 11.15-noon (3.5-5). Ivy Nursery Sanlitun. (WeChat ID: LK-BJ-10001)

Work Your Body Out

Flowing into Femininity Circle, Jun 27
Adults. When women hold trauma in their bodies, it will be manifested in different ways. When trauma is healed and released, a shift happens in life and we can begin to embody our own truth. Andreia Peres invites women to a morning of love where we will use different techniques to release stagnant energy, connect with the earth, work our primal source of energy, our sexual energy, embody our emotions through intuitive dance and release trauma through drumming therapy. RMB 200. 10.30am-12.30pm. OASIS International Hospital.

Ballet for Fun, Fitness, and Fineness, until Jun 29
Ages 4-7. Prima Ballerina aims to bring passion, fun, and creativity to every class, nurturing each students’ love of the art form through their practice, dedication, and creativity. This form of ballet training breaks through classical teaching methods and builds children’s passion for dance through a variety of games, sounds, and musical styles. The classes take place every Friday and will be taught by Elyn Wang, an ex-soloist ballerina for the National Ballet of China, who has over five years experience teaching children at the National Ballet and at private ballet studios around Beijing. RMB 160-220 per class. 4.30-5.20pm. Prima Ballerina at Beijing Language and Cultural Center for Diplomatic Missions in Sanlitun. (WeChat ID: Elyn0318, 139 1158 8951)

Yoga with Mulang, every Wed and Fri until Jul 13
Adults. Join instructor Mulang for a positive flow yoga class at Ramo on Wednesday and Friday mornings. Bring your own yoga mat and your friends to this fun class. RMB 60 (sign up via the QR code on the poster). 10.30-11.30am. Ramo Restaurant & Bar.

Adult Gymnastics, every Tue and Thu until Jul 19
Adults. Sports Beijing will launch a very interesting program of adult gymnastics, which can help us stretch the body, shape muscles, and enhance physical coordination. This project will combine the gymnastics and yoga, and participants will learn some gymnastics movements like rolls, handstands, and cartwheels. RMB 160 per week (visit this page to register). 1.30-2.30pm. Sports Beijing.

State of the Arts

St. Florian Boys’ Choir at the NCPA, Jun 29
All ages. The St. Florian Boys’ Choir in Austria is one of the world-renowned choirs with the most tradition. Production of sacred music is still one of the most important functions of the boys’ choir. Apart from this, they are also musical ambassadors for Austria everywhere in the world. See them at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) on June 29. RMB 80-400 (buy tickets here). 7.30pm. NCPA.

Yale Midsummer Night’s Concert, Jun 29
All ages. This chamber concert will feature four representative masterpieces from the Classical, the Romantic, and the Modern period. Experience the whole range of Western classical music from France, Russia, Germany and Austria at an extraordinary evening of chamber music with two Yale alumni and a Yale student. RMB 120, RMB 60 (students). Visit this page for more info. 6.30-8.30pm. Yale Center Beijing.

Art Book in China at M Woods, Jun 29-Jul 6
All ages. Check out abC Art Book Week at M Woods where everybody can find magazines and art from a variety of imprints and artists with special spotlights on Indiemags from Germany, Japanese photo editions from Einstein Studio, and the Desktop Art Fair. See this page to register and see the list of publishers and organizations. Noon-7pm. M Woods.

Learn Henna With Yeyin at Yichang Café, Jul 1
Kids 12+. Yichang Cafe is hosting classes in henna painting, taught by Ye Yin. The last class of the course explores and discusses the infinite possibilities of making home decorations with henna decoration. RMB 300. 2-4pm. Yichang Cafe.

Film and Stage Acting Workshops by Beijing Fringe Theatre, until Jul 7
All ages. Beijing Fringe Theatre offers various acting classes and specialty acting workshops for stage and film, with a focus on monologues, audition, scene work, and accent dilution. The theatre produces live shows, which give actors opportunities to practice and hone the craft of acting. No experience is necessary, but a passion for the world of acting and a desire to learn and succeed is preferred. Contact  137 1791 3029 or info@beijingfringetheatre.org for more information about the time and fees.

Feed Your Mind

Alpha Course – Explore the Big Questions of Life, Jun 27
All ages. Alpha is an opportunity to freely explore your unique questions about life, faith, and God. It is a series of interactive sessions exploring the Christian faith, typically run over eleven weeks. Each talk looks at a different question around faith and is designed to create conversation. The summer season goes from June 20 through August. New guests are welcome to visit until July 11. Free admission but the event is open to foreign passport holders only. Scan the QR code on the poster for more info. 7-9.15pm. Beijing International Christian Fellowship (BICF).

Mindful Mothers, every Wed until Jun 27
Adults. Join the Beijing Mindfulness Center for the Mindful Mother meditation series; three maternal meditations which focus on rejuvenating the woman’s body, mind, and spirit. If you are a first-time expecting mother or a mother of many years, it is essential to maintain your energy and life balance. Join a community of mothers who desire to renew their life source from within. RMB 150 per session. 10-11.30am. Beijing Mindfulness Center, No.44, Qian Yong Kang Hutong, Dongcheng. 北京市东城区前永康胡同44号 (6403 4923, hello@beijingmindfulness.com)

More Events

Caterpillar Chinese Reading Club, every Tue until Jun 26
All ages. The Caterpillar Chinese Reading Club is a book club for those who are English-speaking and trying to learn Chinese, and need some friends! The club invites Chinese learners of all levels and everyone to bring their own learning goals. The session will start with a fluent Chinese community member sharing about a book they recently read and help others practice listening and communication. In the next portion, the group members will share personal goals, and then try and converse about what everyone read and learned in Chinese. Free to attend. From 8pm. Bookworm. Scan the QR code on the poster for more details.

Beijing Coffee Wine Festival, Jun 27-29
Adults. An annual coffee and cocktail event in Beijing, the 2018 Beijing Coffee Wine Festival is a social gathering for coffee and cocktail lovers from around the country. With over 30 popular cafes and bars, the festival-goers can expect a smorgasbord of immersive experiences. Experience classic flavors and new concoctions, intense competitions, exciting activities and promotions all at the 2018 Beijing Coffee and Wine Festival. RMB 20 (visit this page for more info). 9am-5pm. China National Convention Center.

River Blue Documentary Screening, Jun 28
Adults. River Blue, narrated by Jason Priestly, brings awareness to the destruction of some of the world’s most vital rivers through the manufacture of our clothing, but it will also act as a demand for significant change from in the textile industry from top fashion brands. Free admission. For more information, scan the QR code in the image. 7pm. Crossboundaries.

Conscious Africans Cultural Day Event, Jun 29
Adults. Conscious Africans Network (CAN) is a non-profit organization based in Beijing with the sole objective of harnessing the potential and resources of the Africans in China and beyond for the benefit of the motherland. The network celebrates their first anniversary with the best of African culture and razzmatazz. Free admission. Scan the QR code on the poster for more details. 5-10pm. The Bookworm.

British University Pub Quiz, Jun 29
Adults. Ever faced off with friends and colleagues about whose university was best? Now it’s time to show them who’s boss and win the title University Pub Quiz Champion! Get your university team together and come on down to the British Embassy on Friday, June 29 to compete in the ultimate British University Pub Quiz. RMB 50. See poster for more details. The Bell (in the British Embassy). (soasaab@outlook.com).

Didn’t see your event here? Make sure to upload your family-friendly activities on our website. See this page for more info on how to upload your event.

Photos: Courtesy of Yichang Cafe (featured photo) and events 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!

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.

Dragon Boat Festival

Dragon Boat Festival at InterContinental Beijing Sanlitun, Jun 18
The Dragon Boat Festival happens near the summer solstice, and it’s a tradition to eat zongzi, a traditional bamboo leaf rounded rice dumpling. InterContinental Beijing Sanlitun brings a set of modern zongzi with different flavors, to give an insight into the annual celebration. RMB 238 per set of 12 pieces of zongzi. Available from 9am-5pm. Ying Restaurant, InterContinental Beijing Sanlitun Level 3. (6530 8888-6519)

Dragon Boat Festival @ O’Steak, Jun 18
All ages. Celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival at O’Steak with free zongzi with a French twist, as well as their new summer menu. Order one dish and get a free summer cocktail. 11.30am-11pm. O’Steak.

Rice Dumpling Hamper @The Westin Beijing Chaoyang, Jun 18
Celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival with The Westin Beijing Chaoyang’s rice dumpling hamper. Choose from two types of rice dumpling hampers with salty or sweet stuffing. From RMB 168 per box. Available until 5.55pm. The Westin Beijing Chaoyang. (5922 8702)

Midsummer Fairs and Parties

Canada’s 151st Birthday Fair, Jun 23
All ages. Join the Canadian International School of Beijing at Canada’s 151st National Birthday Fair! There will be great food and wine, live music, luxury fashion, entertainment, games and more! Performers will include indie artist Ember Swift, Tupelo Honey’s Dan Davidson and country and soul singer-songwriter Tami Neilson. RMB 100, RMB 20 (kids). Visit this page to buy tickets. 11am-5pm. Canadian International School of Beijing (CISB).

Madagascar Day, Jun 23
All ages. The Association of Natives of Madagascar in China (ANMC) presents Madagascar Day for the first time in China to promote and let everyone know more about the beautiful island country. The event is part of the celebration of the 58th anniversary of the independence of Madagascar, and is an opportunity for all visitors to indulge in Malagasy culture and cuisine. The ANMC will also collect donations to help and support the homeless in the country. Free to attend. 10am. Embassy of Madagascar. No. 3 Sanlitun Dongjie, Chaoyang District.

Rotaract Casino Royale Gala 2018, Jun 23
Adults. This year, Rotaract Beijing and Rotaract Beijing West are joining forces once again for the third Annual Rotaract Gala of Casino Royale! Free flow food, drink, great company, music, dance and more all in the guise of the Casino Royale at East Hotel’s beautiful terrace function space! Don your finest evening wear, and party the night away with the best crowd in Beijing. There are loads of prizes to be won along with themed games and special after-party rates at Xian Bar. RMB 500 (buy tickets here). 7-11.45pm. EAST Beijing.

Samajam Kids Show -You Are the Show! In Beijing, Fri-Sun until Jul 1
All ages. Samajam Kids Show is a new concept, a participatory musical show, in which all participants receive several musical instruments during the performance. RMB 180-350 (visit this page to buy tickets). 10.30am. Tianqiao Arts Center. (400 610 3721, 1010 3721, ponypiao@aliyun.cn)

Vegan Outreach Dinner at Pebbles, Jun 20
All ages. Vegans of Beijing presents another Vegan Outreach Dinner at Pebbles. They have just launched their new Baja-themed menu, making it the most vegan-friendly Mexican restaurant in Beijing. RMB 128 (visit this page to register). 7.30-9.30pm. Pebbles Courtyard.

Good Day Beijing Brunch with the Soul Band, Jun 24
All ages. Blue Note Beijing dishes up hot food and cool jazz with the Good Day Beijing Brunch featuring the Soul Band. Featuring great local musicians, Soul Band will touch on everything from Gershwin, to tango, to pop, all with a jazz flavor, while you enjoy the flavors of their delicious brunch. RMB 288 (visit this page for more info). 12.30-3.30pm. Blue Note Beijing.

Work Your Body Out

Yoga with Cats, Jun 19
All ages. Love cats & yoga? Try Ms. Uptown’s yoga class with our guest cat, Yuan Bao (lit. “Treasure”). Yuan Bao will keep you company while you challenge yourself on the mat. He loves people, and aspires to also become a yogi one day and teach Ashtanga yoga to his cat community. When Yuan Bao isn’t hanging out at Ms. Uptown’s yoga with cats class, you can always visit him at his home (MAOO Cat Cafe). RMB 168 (visit this page to register). Noon-1pm. Miss Uptown.

Adult Gymnastics, every Tue and Thu until Jul 19
Adults. Sports Beijing is launching a program of adult gymnastics, which can help us stretch our body, shape our muscles and enhance physical coordination. This project will combine the gymnastics and yoga, and participants will learn some gymnastics movements like rolls, handstands, and cartwheels. RMB 160 per week (visit this page to register). 1.30-2.30pm. Sports Beijing.

Feed Your Mind

Chinese Breakfast Seminar: Cash Flow Management, Jun 22
Adults. This Chinese-language seminar teaches you the essentials of cash flow management. Learn why cash flow management is critical to business management, how it looks at the different stages of development, how to tie it into funding and business planning and what factors affect it. RMB 100. Visit this page for more info. 9.30-11.30am. German Industry and Commerce (GIC) Beijing.

Caterpillar Chinese Reading Club, every Tue until Jun 26
All ages. The Caterpillar Chinese Reading Club is a book club for those who are English-speaking and trying to learn Chinese, and need some friends! The club invites Chinese learners of all levels and everyone to bring their own learning goals. The session will start with a fluent Chinese community member sharing about a book they recently read and help others practice listening and communication. In the next portion, the group members will share personal goals, and then try and converse about what everyone read and learned in Chinese. Free to attend. From 8pm. Bookworm. Scan the QR code on the poster for more details.

Mindful Mothers, every Wed until Jun 27
Adults. Join the Beijing Mindfulness Center for the Mindful Mother meditation series; three maternal meditations which focus on rejuvenating the woman’s body, mind, and spirit. If you are a first-time expecting mother or a mother of many years, it is essential to maintain your energy and life balance. Join a community of mothers who desire to renew their life source from within. RMB 150 per session. 10-11.30am. Beijing Mindfulness Center, No.44, Qian Yong Kang Hutong, Dongcheng. 北京市东城区前永康胡同44号 (6403 4923, hello@beijingmindfulness.com)

Exhibitions and Concerts

London Symphony Orchestra with Gianandrea Noseda and Yefim Bronfman, Jun 21
All ages. The London Symphony Orchestra appears at the NCPA under the direction of Gianandrea Noseda, widely recognized as one of the leading conductors of his generation. Pianist Yefim Bronfman appears as the soloist, playing a programme that includes works by Dvorak, Liszt, and Shostakovich. RMB 280-1,680 (visit this page to buy tickets). The event starts at 7.30pm. National Centre For The Performing Arts (NCPA).

Stage: Notre Dame de Paris, Jun 21-23
Adults. Adapted from Victor Hugo’s novel Notre Dame de Paris, this production brings the classic novel to the stage in French with Chinese subtitles. Produced in partnership with Britain’s TNT Theatre, the production focuses on the novel’s themes of religion and morality, sex, and love. RMB 148-370 (visit this page this page to buy tickets). From 7.30pm. Nine Theater.

Art Exhibition: Bazaar Bizarre by Mary A. Johnson, Jun 23-Jul 7
All ages. Bazaar Bizarre is an exhibition of Mary Johnson’s multimedia works, including a site-specific installation – a large-scale, hyper-fantastic, phantasmagorical compound of unknown origin. A multilayered spectrum of organic dyes, wet-market finds, and synthetic-sensational Taobao treasures, it investigates and reappraises the ontology in Franz Roh’s magic realism for the 21st century. It is an exercise in alchemy, an exhibitionist exhibition to expose the intricate, often grotesque beauty of an increasingly artificial world. Visit this page for more information. Free to attend. The opening reception is on June 23 at 4pm. aotuspace – 67, Beixinqiao Toutiao, Dongcheng District 凹凸空间 – 北京市东城区北新桥头条67号

Photos: Burst via Pexels, 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!

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.

Children’s Day Activities

Children’s Day Special: Chinese Shadow Puppetry and Live Folk Music, May 31
All ages. Join Modernista for one more Thursday dedicated to cultural influences and fusions from all the round the world blended into music, dance, theater and stage performances. The event will feature shadow puppets designed and managed by experienced puppet master Wang Yuguang with a contemporary music twist from to Ravi’s experimental influences. 9-11.30am. Modernista

Children’s Day Flea Market at The Local, Jun 2
All ages. The Local Flea Market in Beijing will be held on June 2 with more than 30 quality vendors selling Chinese products, organic food, special family drinks, and imported English-language books in celebration of Children’s Day. There will also have a paper folding workshop for kids from WWF (World Wildlife Fund), using creative ideas to build the animal world. The workshop will support an organization which is saving wild animals in Africa. In addition, your children can volunteer to help the WWF get the word out about protecting the environment. Representatives of the WWF will be on site and will have activities and gifts for the little ones who volunteer. Free to attend. 11am-6pm. The Local. For more information, visit this page. (158 1071 3743, mr_j.c.zhang@hotmail.com)

Slow Boat Family Day: Kid’s Theater, Jun 2
Slow Boat’s Family Day returns on Jun with a theme of “Kid’s Theater” to support Dew Drops Little Flower. There will be hand puppet crafts, a play stage, costumes and props, and storytelling for the little ones. Parents can enjoy any brunch item plus tea, coffee, or a beer for RMB 150 (one parent) or RMB 200 (two parents). Bring any number of children for free! The ticket includes brunch and a drink, your child’s brunch, access to the craft table and materials. In addition to donating a portion of ticket sales to Dew Drops Little Flower, Slow Boat also encourages their guests to bring items for donation to Dew Drops. There will be a donation box on site where you may leave the items. Noon-3pm. To register, scan the QR code or visit this page.

BICO Family Concert: Peter and the Wolf / Carnival of the Animals, Jun 2 and 3
All ages. This year’s family concert of the Beijing International Chamber Orchestra (BICO) features Prokofiev’s enchanting musical tale, Peter and the Wolf. The performance is suitable for children of all ages, and it continues BICO’s longstanding tradition of presenting entertaining and educational family concerts for everyone. RMB 150 (adults), RMB 80 (kids). Book tickets here (for Jun 2, Jun 3). Beijing International Chamber Orchestra. Canadian International School of Beijing, No. 38 Liangmaqiao, Chaoyang. (www.bico-china.com, maria.nauen@mail.ru)

Hot Fairs and Markets in June

Riviera Chic Bazaar, May 30-31
All ages. Riviera Chic combines top small thriving independent designers who focus on authenticity, specialization, and quality ideal for the discerning shopper. From on-trend fashion, a cool unique teacher’s gift or a treat to take home for a loved one! They are also supporting Love & Hope Charity. See the list of vendors here. Free to attend. 10am-4pm. Beijing Riviera Clubhouse.

BSB Shunyi Summer Fayre, Jun 3
All ages. Come along for some summer fun at The British School of Beijing (BSB) Shunyi’s Summer Fayre, one of the biggest events each year at BSB. Families can enjoy lunch, snack and drinks from many food vendors, fun with games, water park, bouncy castles and enjoy visiting a variety of stalls indoors and outdoors. The Grand Charity Raffle will have many prizes to be won too. This fair is open to the whole Beijing community. Noon-4pm. Visit this page for more info. (8047 3588, marketing@bsbshunyi.com)

British Chamber’s 2018 Summer Garden Party, Jun 7
All ages. Kick off summer with the 2018 British Chamber Summer Garden Party, a highlight of Beijing’s social calendar. This year’s party will celebrate a classic British summer sporting festival: Wimbledon. Join the British Chamber at the British Ambassador’s Residence, and enjoy an evening of delicious food from TRB Catering; free-flow British beer, Pimm’s, and gin and tonic; and live music. The Annual General Meeting of the British Chamber of Commerce in China will be held before the party and is exclusive to members only. RMB 300 (non-members), RMB 200 (members). Price includes all you can eat and drink. 4.30-8.30pm. British Ambassador’s Residence.

BCIS Rockfest & Beijing Runway 2018, Jun 8
All ages. Are you someone who knows how to rock out and get the crowds cheering? Or maybe you are a fashionista who wants to see their designs strutted down the catwalk? If so, join Beijing City International School’s (BCIS) Rockfest & Beijing Runway shows, popular events that will run from 5.30-8.30pm on June 8. Free to attend. BCIS. (8771 7171, emma.parker@bcis.cn)

YCIS Beijing’s ‘Re-Market,’ Jun 9
All ages. As part of Yew Chung International School of Beijing’s Zero Waste month, the school invites everyone to attend their recycle, reuse, and repair ‘Re-Market.’ There will be workshops, organic products on sale, a film screening and stalls for buying and exchanging books, clothes, toys, and furniture – all in promotion of waste reduction. Free to attend but registration is needed (visit this page to register). 1-5pm. YCIS Beijing. (8583 3731, phoebe.yu@bj.ycef.com)

Fun for the Fam

Hand in Hand Music Festival, Jun 3
All ages. Make sure to check out the Hand in Hand International Children’s Music Festival, China’s first international music festival created for the whole family, which is about to happen on Sunday, June 3 in Beijing. The festival was founded by American journalist Rebecca Kanthor and her husband, Chinese musician and author Liu Jian. They are bringing together bands from all over the world to play a family-friendly mix of rock and pop music for an audience of kids, allowing all kids in China to experience the magic of live music and learn about different cultures. RMB 160-360 (book your tickets here) 10am-2pm. Beijing Exhibition Center (139 1613 7358; info@handinhandchina.com)

The Color Run 2018 Hero Tour, Jun 9
All ages. The Color Run, also known as the Happiest 5k on the Planet, is a unique paint race that celebrates healthiness, happiness, and individuality. Now the largest running series in the world, The Color Run has been experienced by over 6 million runners worldwide in more than 35 countries. This year’s Color Run features a Foam Zone full of colored bubbles and a great big paint-throwing party at the end. RMB 228 (classic kit), RMB 288 (superhero kit). 9am-4.30pm. Beijing Garden Expo Park. Visit our Events page for more info.

Bout à bout: French Family Theatre, Jun 9-24
Ages 3+. Bout à bout is a unique puppetry show connecting life, arts and imagination for children. It is inspired by artist Jean-Marie Hobet and a group of pre-school children and teachers. Bout à bout (“end to end”) is a story full of poetry and light, and it features ropes of various sizes, and music and sounds played by three invisible puppeteers, who give life to the ropes: fire lances, boa constrictors, means of transport or sumo preparing for battle, dog and cat, snake, octopus, and fish. RMB 245-780. Shows are from 10.30am, 3.30pm, 6.30pm, and 7.30pm. Tong Playroom. For more info, visit this page. (WeChat subscription account: tongtiyan)

Aidi School Summer Music Concert, Jun 12
All ages. Aidi School pays tribute to traditional culture with a concert on June 12. The Aidi School Summer Music Concert allows them to use music as a bridge for culture. The program covers Peking opera, local theatre and folk songs and dances, and will be staged at the Forbidden City Concert Hall. RMB 180-380. RSVP: Monica Zhao (185 1513 2431, zhaoyini@aidi.edu.cn)

Film and Stage Acting Workshops by Beijing Fringe Theatre, Jun 24-Jul 7
All ages. Beijing Fringe Theatre offers various acting classes and specialty acting workshops for stage and film, with a focus on monologues, audition, scene work, and accent dilution. The theatre produces live shows, which give actors opportunities to practice and hone the craft of acting. No experience is necessary, but a passion for the world of acting, and a desire to learn and succeed, is preferred. Contact  137 1791 3029 or info@beijingfringetheatre.org for more information about the time and fees.

Ballet for Fun, Fitness, and Fineness, until Jun 29
Ages 4-7. Prima Ballerina aims to bring passion, fun, and creativity to every class, nurturing each students’ love of the art form through their practice, dedication, and creativity. This form of ballet training breaks through classical teaching methods and builds children’s passion for dance through a variety of games, sounds, and musical styles. The classes take place every Friday and will be taught by Elyn Wang, an ex-soloist ballerina for the National Ballet of China, who has over five years experience teaching children at the National Ballet and at private ballet studios around Beijing. RMB 160-220 per class. 4.30-5.20pm. Prima Ballerina at Beijing Language and Cultural Center for Diplomatic Missions in Sanlitun. (WeChat ID: Elyn0318, 139 1158 8951)

Little Kickers Beijing Football Trial Class, until Jun 30
Kids 1.5+. These trial sessions take place every Saturday and are play-oriented for kids aged from 1.5 to 5. Everybody is welcome to experience a series of football games in a fun environment. Class times: 9.15-10am (ages 1.5-2.5), 10.15-11am (2.5-3.5), 11.15-noon (3.5-5). Ivy Nursery Sanlitun. (WeChat ID: LK-BJ-10001)

Exhibitions

BSB Secondary Soirée, Jun 6
All ages. The British School of Beijing (BSB), Shunyi invites everyone to an evening of creative arts, showcasing a delightful mix of art and music presented by their secondary students. Stunning pieces of artwork, including outstanding IGCSE and IB Art, will be displayed in the foyer. There will be a musical program that showcases the range of music talent of the student performers. Free to attend. 6-8.30pm. BSB, Shunyi. (8047 3588, www.bsbshunyi.com)

”Hall of Fame” by Artist Jensen Moreno, until Jun 10
All ages. Filipino artist Jensen Moreno showcases her collection of portraits of people she has admired over the past few years. “Hall of Fame” marks her fifth solo painting exhibition. Experience Moreno’s unique artistic perspective and profound understanding of the celebrities and people who inspired her. Free to attend. 9am-5pm. A. C. Embassy Hotel. (Contact curator Daisy Zhao for more info at 183 1013 8251)

The Story of the Peterhof Palace Treasures, until Jun 10
All ages. The Story of the Peterhof Palace Treasures showcases 243 treasures that unveil the grandeur of the Romanov Dynasty in Russia. Originally shown at Peterhof State Museum Reserve, the treasures make their first appearance in China at the China Millennium Monument until June 10. RMB 50 (entrance ticket fee). 9am-5pm.

More Upcoming Events

Blogging in Beijing’s Quarterly Meet-up and Networking Series: “A Gold Mine of Stories,” May 31
Ages 18+. The Blogging in Beijing WeChat group invites everyone to their second quarterly meet-up and networking event on May 31 at XL Bar in Sanlitun. This FREE online-to-offline gathering will focus on the topic of “Beijing: A Gold Mine of Stories” (click here to register). Being a city full of history, Beijing gives everyone a feel of what life in a highly cultural but very contemporary setting is. But beyond the touristy sights and daily urban living lie a wealth of fascinating stories that can inspire budding writers and bloggers, as told by speakers Jeremiah Jenne of Beijing by Foot and Pauline van Hasselt of Beijing Mothers Guild. Free to attend (but registration is needed as there are only 30 seats). 7-9pm. XL Bar, Sanlitun. For more inquiries, contact Andy Penafuerte on WeChat (ID: anp3rd). Scan the QR code to register.

Handmade Natural Skincare Workshop, May 31
All ages. The workshop will be taught by a certified Organic Cosmetic Science formulator and will cover the basics of skin care formulation. Attendees will be introduced to natural raw ingredients and learn how to harness the power of plant botanicals for your skin type. Attendees will get the opportunity to make their own personalized skincare products that can be brought home. This class is suited for beginners and no prior experience is needed. RMB 290 per person. 10am-noon. The SLab. (Jen Pohland: 156 0120 1550)

3e Tea Talk: Let’s Talk About Art, Jun 1
Adults. Jill McKillips, a professor of Visual Art Education at Michigan State University, visits 3e International School to share new ideas and strategies on talking about art with children. This lecture will focus on concepts of Visual Thinking Strategies, art games that engage critical thinking, and how easily we can train to look, see and talk about art with a new perspective. By learning to look and see with a new perspective, we can better understand cultural aesthetics, zero in on the finer details found within the world around us and develop new and more descriptive art vocabularies. Free. 9-10.30am. 3e International School. (6437 3344, community@3einternationalschool.org)

Blossom Montessori Elementary School Open House, Jun 9
All ages. Blossom Montessori Elementary Program open doors to Beijing families and friends! Come along and check out their Montessori environment. Free and food will be served. Activities for kids start from 10.30am. (WeChat ID: Blossom_Montessori, 135 8188 7792, alessia@blossom-edu.com)

Summer Camps

For more upcoming summer camps, visit our April 2018 Summer Survival Guide issue or this page: Happy Campers: All the Fun at Your Door This Summer

South America Football Academy Summer Football Training, Jun 17-Jul 23
All ages. Do you have a budding young football player in your household? There’s no better way to motivate them and help them build skills than by enrolling your budding young football player at a world-class training clinic in Madrid, courtesy of Generation Adidas International, the South America Football Academy (SAFA), and the Real Madrid Foundation Training Program. There are two nine-day clinics coming up this summer, on Jun 17-25 and Jul 15-23, and both will offer the children a chance to train in Spain with experienced professional Real Madrid Foundation coaches. For prices and further details about enrolling, call 176 8572 2785 or email info@nanmei-fa.com.cn.

HoK First Education Travel Program – Discover Germany, Jun 24-Jul 4
All ages. Spend your summer holidays in Germany, exploring historic towns, German car technology and, of course, the best of German food. This travel program offers a fun-filled introduction to Germany and will be led by House of Knowledge teachers. The exclusive group of 10 families will go to some of the most iconic places in southern Germany. Participating families will prepare for the trip in two weekend workshops at House of Knowledge. For prices and a more detailed itinerary, contact Coco Du at 6431 3182, communicationsqf@hokschools.com.

Imagine Festival: The Outdoor Week, Jun 25-29
All ages. Over five days, kids will experience tons of Imagine’s most exciting activities in wonderful locations all around Beijing. For the first three days, they take kids on buses from Beijing out to nature, back in time for dinner at home each night. Then on Days 4 and 5, students camp overnight, returning on Friday afternoon. Camp activities include watersports and strategy games; bubble football; water fight; pirate treasure hunt; long-range archery; parkour; trampolining; obstacle courses; Survival Day; and Civilization Game. RMB 4,000. (5739 4933, info@imagine-china.com)

The SLab’s [Movie Making] Summer Camp, Jun 18-Aug 10
All ages. Green T. House in Shunyi is hosting The SLab’s [Movie Making] summer camp programs this year. At the camp, students will work on the entire process of shooting a short film; experiment with script writing, filming, directing, acting, and editing; and explore their creativity through a variety of teamwork activities. Professional equipment is provided, but students should bring iPads or computers if possible. Open to students ages 8 and above. Camps run weekly from 11am-4pm. Limited to 10 students per class. (156 0120 1550, j.pohland@hotmail.com)

Sports Beijing Summer Camps, Jun-Aug
Kids 4-16. Sports Beijing summer camp is back, offering half day and full day activities for kids who want to engage with gymnastics, football, basketball or tennis. The camp is split up into weeks, with morning and afternoon activities (for full-day campers). For a complete list of schedules, activities, and prices, visit our Events page or www.sportsbj.org. (6430 1370, 6430 1176, info@sportsbj.com)

Didn’t see your event here? Make sure to upload your family-friendly activities on our website. See this page for more info on how to upload your event.

Photos: Courtesy of Beijing City International School and featured event organizers

Beijing’s junior footballers will be battling for glory against teams from all across China this weekend at the Sports Beijing Capital Cup.

The matches will take place on May 19 and 20, at three international schools: the Western Academy of Beijing (WAB), International School of Beijing (ISB), and the British School of Beijing Shunyi (BSB Shunyi). 50 teams of over 600 players, from Beijing, Shenzhen, Shanghai and Hong Kong, will compete in round-robin groups, leading to knockout competitions for the Cup and the Plate.

“Now in its eleventh year, the Capital Cup is one of the biggest youth football tournaments in China,” said Sports Beijing Director Carlos Javier. “It’s a great experience for the kids to play in a tournament format, and to meet and engage with teammates and opposition, in a different way to what they’re used to from Sunday league games.”

Sports Beijing is a not-for-profit organization, set up originally by parent volunteers, to provide sporting opportunities and coaching to international children in Beijing. They offer programs in a range of sports, including rugby, gymnastics, swimming, ice hockey, rock climbing, and martial arts. They also offer sporting summer camps.

To find out more, visit Sports Beijing’s website: www.sportsbj.org

Photos: courtesy of Sports Beijing

Next weekend, August 26 from 10am-3pm, athletes young and old will be heading over to International School of Beijing’s (ISB’s) dome for Sports Beijing’s annual Festival of Sports. We don’t need to list for you all of the benefits that a fun sport can provide for your little ones, so if you are looking to get involved in a team sport or other fitness activities this is the must attend event of the month. Best of all it’s free!

New and returning members age 4 years and above can come by and register for one (or more) of Sports Beijing’s fall 2017 activities. Parents will also have the chance to talk to the coaches, while kids can try out sports and activities such as basketball, soccer, kung fu, rugby, karate, lacrosse, and street dance to name just a few.

Sports Beijing is a not-for-profit community sports organization for junior athletes in Beijing. They offer a broad variety of recreational and competitive youth sports programs, professionally coached and aimed at developing physical, technical and social skills. Their activities are designed for participants of all backgrounds and abilities.

This event at ISB is a chance to get course information, connect with the community and partners (Roundabout, United Family Hospital, Vibrant Communities, THIRST, MaiAqua, Sunny Dental and many more), and find out even more about Sports Beijing. For further information, email info@sportsbj.com or call 6430 1370/6430 1176, and check out the listing here.

Photos: courtesy of Sports Beijing

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 KippWhittaker or anp3rd on WeChat. Please note that readers should confirm with each organizer if events are canceled or scheduled as planned.

Celebrate the 4^th of July

Independence Weekend at Ramo, until Jul 4
All ages. July 4th is known for its love of home-style comfort food of the United States (and its lavish celebration of becoming an independent nation, too). Since Ramo is all about food, fun, and meeting friends, the weekend before July 4th is known as the Independence Weekend at Ramo. From Saturday, July 1st to Tuesday, July 4th enjoy a special all-American menu consisting of classic dishes – a combo of pulled pork sandwich with cole slaw, baked beans and potato salad, strawberry shortcake, and homemade hard lemonade to keep things a bit more exciting. Also, stick around in the evenings, for America- and independence-themed films. 10am-11pm. Ramo Restaurant & Bar. 64 Fangjia Hutong, Dongcheng District. 东城区 方家胡同64号

Independence Day Celebration at Home Plate, Jul 4
Adults. Come to the Home Plate BBQ to enjoy a scrumptious meal and live music by Stevie Mac & The Mac Daddies. There will be a buffet that includes: whole hog and smoked chicken wings for the main course; potato salad, cole slaw, Texas ranch beans and green beans for the side dish; House salad. RMB 138 per person. 6-8pm. Home Plate BBQ. 35 Xiaoyun Lu courtyard, Chaoyang District. 朝阳区 霄云路35号院

4th of July Quiz & Cookout, Jul 4
All ages. Come to The Local Bar & Grill for American cookout sets available from 4-8pm. Additionally, adults can stick around for an American Independence Day quiz from 8.30pm on Tuesday, July 4th. People from all countries are invited. The quiz will be hosted by Kenn and Martin, and there will be prizes for the winners of each round as well as the first place team. The Local Bar & Grill. Courtyard 4, Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District. 朝阳区 工体北路4号院

Relax and Have Fun

Classic Movie Tuesday: ‘Spellbound’ (1945), Jul 4
Ages 5+. In the heat of a Beijing Summer, we explore what is lurking in the shadows, as Alfred Hitchcock – one of the greatest film writers and directors of all time – takes us on another journey into the darkness of film noir… Join Pop-Up Beijing for ‘Spellbound’ (1945), starring Ingrid Bergman, Gregory Peck, and Michael Chekhov. The story revolves around a psychiatrist who protects the identity of an amnesia patient accused of murder while attempting to recover his memory. 7.30pm. Pop-Up Beijing. North Side, Ground Level, Building 22, Courtyard 4, Gongti Beilu, Sanlitun, Chaoyang District. 朝阳区，三里屯，工体北路4号22号楼104室

Experience the Avengers, until Aug 20
All ages. One of the world’s favorite comic series comes to Beijing! Following stops in Times Square, Paris, Las Vegas and Singapore, this interactive comic book experience hits Beijing, giving kids, families, and fans a chance to see Avengers memorabilia up close and to learn more about their favorite heroes. RMB 198 on weekdays, RMB 258 on weekends. Chaoyang Park West Gate. 8 Square, 4th Gate West Chaoyang Park, Chaoyang, Beijing. 北京 朝阳区 北京朝阳公园西4门－－08广场.

Sureño’s Weekend Brunch, every weekend
All ages. Sureño’s Sunken Garden hosts a relaxing brunch every weekend where you and your family can help yourself to a fabulous buffet table and select your main course from favorites including Eggs Benedict, Shakshuka, Duck Cavatelli, Chicken Rösti, and many others. After your meal, you can appease your sweet tooth with delicious desserts such as Chocolate and Raspberry Tart, Nectarine Tatin, and Million Layer Tiramisu Cake. Call 6410 5240 or email info@surenorestaurant.com to reserve. RMB 348 per person (inclusive of service charge and VAT). 11am-3pm. Sureño’s Sunken Garden. B1/F, The Opposite House, Sanlitun Village, 11 Sanlitun Lu Chaoyang District. 朝阳区三里屯路11号三里屯Village瑜舍地下1层

CandleX Rooftop Yoga, every Sunday
All ages. Relax with a sunset yoga session at the rooftop of old Beijing hutong house, and enjoy a cup of tea and social time afterward. Yoga is not just for the body, but also for the mind. This is a wonderful opportunity for like-minded people to gather and get to know each other in a cozy setting. There are 12 spots available every Sunday. RMB 100. 5-7pm. CandleX. Nanluoguxiang area. (WeChat ID: candlex2015, info@candlex.cn, www.candlex.cn)

Falling into Place: The Art of Song Jiayin, Jun 20 – Jul 30 (excluding Mondays)
All ages. “True, but not real; ideal, but not abstract.” This quote by Marcel Proust is the best way to describe the abstract art of Song Jiayin. Her works, made up of portraits and sculpture, are full of tiny details, with no one clear point of view, inviting the audience to ponder their own memories and associations. She is currently showing in Caochangdi’s Hunsand Space. Free. 11am-6pm. Hunsand Space. For more information visit https://www.douban.com/event/28898370/ Caochangdi Art Zone, Block 211, Building A8 草场地艺术区211号院A8

Enjoy the Fresh Air

The Prince, the Widow, and the Scholar: A Walk and Discussion Around the Lakes of Beijing, Jul 4
All ages. Come out for a walk around Beijing’s scenic lakes including Qianhai and Houhai^. The walk includes three stops: the gorgeous former home of Guo Moruo, an author, artist, and poet; the palace of Aisin-Gioro Yixin, better known as Prince Gong; and the former home of Soong Ch’ing-ling, the widow of revolutionary leader Sun Yat-sen. Sign up here. RMB 300 (RMB 260 for members of The Hutong) includes all guide fees, tips, and admission tickets. 10am-1pm. Qianhai Xiyan, 51 Di’anmen Dajie Dongcheng District. 东城区 地安门大街51号前海西沿

Zhenbiancheng Great Wall Loop Hike, July 6
Ages 7+. Head out to the border of Beijing Municipality and Hebei Province for a moderately difficult walk through peach orchards, up valleys, and along the Great Wall. Be amazed by the breathtaking views of the distinctive peaks of nearby ‘Brush-rest’ Mountain. This remote part of the Great is rough and seldom-visited, but don’t miss out on this hike if you’re interested in a visit to a section of the wall very different to what you’ve seen on postcards. Call for info on hikes and what to bring. RMB 400 (RMB 360 for members). 8am-6pm. Beijing Hikers. (6432 2786, info@beijinghikers.com, hwww.beijinghikers.com) Rm 601, Bldg 2, Xinhualian Ligang, 26 Jiuxianqiao Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. 朝阳区 酒仙桥中路26号新华联丽港2号楼601室.

Himalaya cultural trips in Nepal, various dates in July
All ages. After a successful completion of summer trips with families from different countries last year, Magic Expeditions & Depth of Field Himalaya Travels are delighted to welcome their new family guests again this year. Activities cover interactions with locals, farm visits, historical areas, trekking (suitable for children), after quake visit to villages, culture exchange, healing workshops, monastery & sadhu visits,  a journey to discover & reconnect. Depth of Filed Himalaya Travels. (189 8721 3504, himalayatrips@yahoo.com, www.imnotblue.com/himalaya).

Learn and Discover

International Restaurant and Hotel Show, Jul 6
All ages. The China International Exhibition Center is hosting the 2017 International Restaurant and Hotel Show. With over 530 businesses set to participate, check out everything from B2B business matching, an Italian coffee latte art competition, a gelato-making class, how to decorate with fondant, tips on making the best cocktails, and countless other seminars and forums. Great for the foodies among us. Free. 9am-4pm. China International Exhibition Center. 6 Beisanhuan Donglu, Sanyuan Qiao, Chaoyang District. 朝阳区 朝阳区北三环东路6号

Festival of International Culture, Jul 7
All ages. That’s Mandarin present the Festival of International Cultural Exchange, where participants can bring food from their home countries while at the same time enjoying foods from other cultures. Different activities for participants include three different games in which parents can also participate. There will also be a cosplay party. The event will end with a talk show about participants’ cultural specificities. RMB 50. 10am-11.50am. That’s Mandarin. (5218 6432, info@thatsmandarin.com). 1/F, Office Bldg B, Xinzhong Yuan, Xinzhong Jie, Dongcheng District. 东城区 新中街新中园写字楼B座1层

Weekly Drawing Classes, until Nov 25
All ages. The weekly art sessions will run until November 25. They’re perfect for families with children that have a passion for art. Students at the SLab can learn correct drawing techniques, how to draw portraits and even papier mâché. Come join the Academic Drawing Class from 1-3pm, and/or the Creative Drawing Class from 4-6pm. RMB 290 per class. The SLab. (138 1121 8031). R102 Building 5, No.15 DongzimenWai Street Dongcheng Street. 北京东城区东直门外大街15号楼5单元102室.

Speak Mandarin Fluently in Three Months, every day until Dec 31, 2018
All ages. Sophia Zhang is putting expats to the test and challenging to learn to speak Mandarin fluently in just three months. Join us to enhance your Chinese skills daily and conquer this difficult language once and for all. Requires an application; sign up here. 5.30am-10.30pm. Mandarin House Beijing. Suite 317, Tower 16, China Central Place, 89 Jianguo Road, Shuangjing. 朝阳区建国路89号华贸商务楼16号楼317室

Dumpling Cooking Class, Wed and Thu until Dec 31
All ages. Come to the courtyard KUCINA Cooking Studio to learn how to make traditional Chinese dumplings. Come on your own or bring your friend friends for a dumpling cooking class, which includes a meal around the table. Call to make a reservation one day in advance. 10.30am. (150 1133 7590). 44 Liushui Xiang, Dongsi Wutiao, Dongcheng District. 东城区 东四五条流水巷44号.

Children’s Book Expo & Beijing Science Festival, Jul 7-16
All ages. Already in its third consecutive year, the China Children’s Book Expo is back and this year’s event is combined in one space with Beijing Science Festival. Browse and buy children’s books from over 40 children’s publishers and participate in a wide range of interactive activities themed around children’s books and science.  Once you’ve explored children’s books until your heart’s content, move on to discover a whole world of science fun! RMB 120 per person, free entry for children under 0.9m tall. 10am- 5pm. Beijing Exhibition Center. 135 Xizhimenwai Street, Xicheng District. 西城区 西直门外大街135号.

Creative Writing Workshop, second and last Saturday of every month
Ages 14-19. Join the Beijing Youth Literary Review (BYLR) for creative writing workshops to learn about Blackout Poetry, Collaborative Stories and more. 2pm. For more information, follow BYLR on Facebook, Instagram (@beijingyouthlit), and WeChat (beijingyouthlit). #13 Unit 6, Building C, Xiangjiang Bei An, Xiangjiang Bei Lu, Chaoyang District, Beijing. 北京市朝阳区香江北路香江北岸C座6单元底商13号

Go camping

Atelier Summer Camps, Jul 3-7
Ages 5+ Like every year, Atelier’s team has created a series of epic and adventurous workshops through art history, literature and history, and science! This July, register for the Middle Age workshops, where children will learn about castle models and Middle Age art, manuscript, architecture, and coats of arms. RMB 1,800 to RMB 5,000. Room 10L, Building 7, Julong Garden, No. 68 Xinzhong Lu, Dongcheng District. 北京市东城区新中街68号聚龙花园7号楼10L室

Survival Camp, July
Ages 7-14. Making fires, building rafts, crossing rivers, making traps and tools, cooking fish, building shelters… Survival Camp takes you to the great outdoors to learn what nature has to offer. Taught by guides with many years of experience leading survival camps abroad. Click here for more information about camp dates and payment deadlines. Sign up at http://imagine-china.com/survival-camp/. RMB 750 (normal price per day); RMB 650 (early bird price per day if you will sign Up a month before the start and pay a deposit) RMB 650 (per day for 3 children) RMB 550 (per day for 10 kids). (WeChat ID: Imagine24x7Service, 5739 4933, info@imagine-china.com)

Flips & Kicks Plus Summer Camp @ Kerry Sports 2017, Jul 5
Ages 4-12. For the first week of July and the first two weeks of August, Kerry Sports will be hosting a summer camp where children can engage in fun sports, including martial arts, gymnastics, volleyball, and fencing. Expert foreign coaches will be on hand to keep everyone safe while teaching children the benefits of patient practice. Sign up for a half day (9am-noon, with lunch included) or full day (9am-2.30pm). RMB 3,200-4,500. 9am-noon (half day), 9am-2.30pm (full day). Beijing Kerry Center. (hbkc@thekerryhotels.com, 8565 2460).

Sports Beijing Summer Camp, until Aug 11
Ages 5+. Sports Beijing is offering a wide variety of weekday full-day activities and half-day activities, both in the morning and afternoon from June 19 to August 11. This summer camp will be held inside the air conditioned and air purified ISB dome and the morning activities will include basketball, football, gymnastic, and tennis. In the afternoon the activities will include a multi-sport program, as well as tennis. Spots are limited. For other information and registration, contact Sports Beijing via WeChat (ID: sportbeijing). (6430 1370, 6430 1176, info@sportsbj.com)

Fashion Summer Camp, whole month of July
Ages 8+. Get ready this July 2017 for an exciting new set of fashion themed programs available at the SLab. From designing to sewing, students will learn a variety of skills that brings out creativity and exercises dexterity skills. At the Slab’s Kid’s Summer Camp, the four key fashion topics that will be explored are: Machine Sewing; Textile Crafts; Needlework; and Drawing. The SLab. (138 1121 8031). Room 102 Building 5, No.15 Dongzhimen Outer Street (Haolou South Gate) Dongcheng District, Beijing. 北京东城区东直门外大街15号楼5单元102室.

Storytelling Summer Camp, whole month of July
Ages 8+. In this age of technological advancement and accessible social media platforms, there are no limits to what we can create and share with the world with just the phones in our hands. With limitless sources for output, there comes a tendency to lose sight of the importance in foundational elements. Just take a look at the sheer amount of lifeless narratives in the Summer blockbusters, an explosion of images with no clear objective. The SLab brings you a whole new theme of Storytelling workshops, where students will be able to explore three different methods to tell stories, from illustration, to photography, to film.  Come build stories and narratives with The SLab’s three available programs: Movie Making; Comic Creation; and Visual Diary. The SLab. (138 1121 8031). Room 102 Building 5, No.15 Dongzhimen Outer Street (Haolou South Gate) Dongcheng District, Beijing. 北京东城区东直门外大街15号楼5单元102室.

Photos: Wow_Pho, 422737, Brahmsee via Pixabay; Other photos courtesy of the organizers

More stories by this author here.

If you haven’t signed up your kid for a summer camp yet–it’s not too late! You might have missed the early bird discounts, but quite a few camps are still accepting applications for at least July, and August (ask them about June!)

SBJ Summer Camps, June 13-Aug 5 Ages 5-15. Sports Beijing will be hosting its weekly sports camps at at ISB’s air-conditioned Fusion Dome.  The choices are basketball, gymnastics, and soccer in the mornings; multi-sports (flag football, dodge ball, ultimate frisbee, etc.) in the afternoon. Tennis is now also offered in cooperation with Fusion Tennis Center. Water activities, such as water fights and pool time, can be expected, as well as fun games such as capture the flag and obstacle courses. The Aqua Warriors swim camp is for competitive swimmers, and the HS Youth Performance Camp will be held at Duck and Goose Ranch in Huairou.

• RMB 2,700 (ISB dome), RMB 1,600 (swim camp), RMB 5,200 (HS performance camp). Price includes lunch, camp t-shirts, and transportation. (contact info@sportsbj.com)

HoK Around the World, Jul 4-15
Ages 3-6. Children joining the camp will first get to make their own passport as they’re going on a trip around the word!  What should they pack in their suitcase? Where are they going? They explore maps and world objects, then off they go around the world. At each destination they will explore the culture, songs, language and food in a fun and captivating way using games, music, art, geography and science. There will be a whole host of activities to keep the children’s minds and bodies active this summer.

• RMB 2,200/week (full day). RMB 1,350/week without lunch (half day). RMB 1,720/week with lunch (half day). School bus transportation for an additional RMB 200/week. (contact admissions@hokschool.com, 400 650 7747).

Ivy Camps, Jul 4-Aug 12

Ages 2.6-8. Ivy Academy offers eleven camps at five different campuses. The overall camp selections are: Creative Expressions; Artistic Appreciation; Journey of Art Discovery; Science Shenanigans; Get Active; Sports and Food; Approaching China; Wet and Wild; Traditional Chinese Culture; OE Bilingual Camp; and Game Designer.

• RMB 2,850-7,200/session/2 weeks.  (contact: camp@ivyschools.com)

ClubFootball, Jul 5-Aug 24

Ages 4.5-16. China Club Football has been around since 2001, hosting football classes and camps that promote coordination and teamwork. This summer, their coaches will have week long summer classes for players of all skill levels, or minimal three-day intensive workshops, depending on your child’s schedule.

• RMB 800-1,500/week. Camps will be held in Chaoyang Park, Olympic Forest Park, Zhongguancun, Wangjing, Lido and Shunyi (contact coaching@wanguoqunxing.com, 5130 6893)

Atelier Artistic Summer Camps, Jun 27-Jul 26
Ages 5-12. Atelier Art School will be running funny, creative, and inspiring artistic summer camps for one thematic week.  The themes include a Cubism Workshop; Hokusai and Japan; Egyptian Civilization; Africa; The Little Prince; Around the World in Eighty Days.

• RMB 1,500/week, session. Morning session for 5-8 year olds. Afternoon session for 9-12 year olds. Note that the Sanlitun campus sessions begin on Jun 27 and end on Aug 26, while the Shunyi campus begins on Jun 13 and ends on Jul 22. See their website for a detailed schedule of when each theme is taught. (contact@atelier.cn.com, 132 4018 490, 6416 1614).

Chinese Cultural Summer Camps,  Jul 18-22, Aug 8-12, Aug 15-19

Ages 6-14, China Culture Center hosts a five day bilingual summer camp with both indoor hands-on activities and outdoor tours exploring the city’s authentic Chinese culture and structures.

• RMB 3,200 per child for 5 days. China Culture Center (info@chinaculturecenter.org, 6432 9341)

The Children’s House Summer Camp, Jul 11-Aug 18

Ages 1.5-6.  The Children’s House Summer Camp will be hosted at the Kempinski and China World campuses. Daily programs include nature arts and crafts, music, story tales and lots more.

•  RMB 1,500 (half-day), RMB 2,000 (half-day + lunch), RMB 3,000 (full day) for a session (one week). 10% discount if you sign up for all five weeks. (contact: info@montessoribeijing.com, 6505 3869 or 6465 1305)

Flips & Kicks Plus Summer Camp, Jun 27-Jul 1, Jul 4-Jul 8 Ages 4-12. Flips & Kicks Plus offers a multi-sports Summer Camp where children can try fun sports, such as: Gymnastics, Martial Arts, Track & Field, Football, Ping Pong, Basketball etc.

• RMB 1,980 (half day-1 block). RMB 3,080 (full day-1 block). Price includes water and a fruit snack. Please bring your own water bottle. Lunch can be provided for an additional fee. (info@flipsandkicksplus.com, 13718462044)

That’s Mandarin! Chinese Summer Camp, Jun 27-Jul 10, Jul 11-24, Jul 25-Aug 7, Aug 8-21

Ages 5-17. That’s Mandarin offers several different camp options to suit any family!  There are morning camps, day camps, and full day camps.  For older children, there are also homestay camps, and if you’d like in on the fun—family camps! Camps can be two week long or four week long. The full-length program includes intensive Chinese classes with cartoon class, reading and writing, and topic based oral lessons.  Each week has three days of cultural activities, including traditional Chinese calligraphy, opera mask painting, cooking classes, Chinese knot making, and mahjong. Field trips and excursions are also available for Beijing, such as the Great Wall, Ming Tombs, Confucius Temple, and Beihai Park.

• For Beijing camps, contact: info@thatsmandarin.com (5218 6432). For the Shanghai camps, contact: info.shanghai@thatsmandarin.com (6452 0017).

BSC Sailing Camps, Jun 12-Aug 26
Ages 8-16. Beijing Sailing Center will be hosting single and double week sailing classes.  The program provides an adventurous, intellectual and educational experience, while honing your child’s leadership and communication skills.  Last summer they hosted over 500 children and their parents coming. The center is both convenient to Beijing (a 2 hour train ride trip) and all the accommodation, transportation, a meal, activities, chaperones, and entertainments are covered.

• RMB 13,400 (2 weeks), RMB 6,700 (1 week). Contact: sailing@beijingsailing.com (400 180 0107).

Hyde Education Summer Enrichment Program, Jul 11-Aug 12
Grades 1-9. Hyde Academy has scheduled a series of fun, hands-on, academic summer enrichment programs in math, science, language arts, and humanities for students in grades 1- 9. Take a tour of the universe from the inside out with our exciting introductory physics course.  Use math to explore the world around us through a variety of inquiry-based problems and projects. Fancy yourself as the next Sherlock Holmes? Sign up for our Crime Scene Investigation program.  Other course titles include: Public Speaking, Archaeology, Geography: Mapping our World, and Vocabulary and the Art of Writing.

• RMB 2,250 (half day), RMB 4,275 (full day) per week. Contact registration@hyde-education.com (8046-3886).

O’le Climbing Summer Camp, Jun 20-24, Jul 4-8, Aug 1-5, 8-12, 15-18
Ages 15-19. O’le Climbing will be offering indoor and outdoor adventure summer camps for students during the summer holiday. Various activities are ready for this summer from indoor rock climbing to outdoor camping trip, all activities lead by professional and qualified instructors.

• RMB 4,500 (includes equipment and admission, transportation, food for two camp days). (oleclimbing@gmail.com, 150 0137 1016).

TSL Beijing Academic Summer, Jun 27-Aug 18

TSL will be running a range of of academic summer courses in their Shunyi learning centres including one-to-one classes, “Get Ahead” program for international school students, group classes (on topics ranging from English literature to journalism) and Project-Based Learning (science, design, writing or service-based).

• RMB 300-800/hr (2-week commitment). Space still available in the 2-week UK summer course in St. Albans and Cambridge University. (contact: zhubei@tslbritain.com).

Imagine Summer Camps, Jun 13-Aug 19

Ages 7-14. Imagine is hosting three summer camps this summer: Knight School, Survival, and Watersports camps!

• RMB 3,500/week (survival). RMB 4000/week (knight/watersports). RMB 800 deposit required upon registration. Campers do not stay overnight. Price includes transportation, equipment, and supplies. Requires own lunch. (info@imagine-china.com, 5739 4933).

Please let us know if more summer camps are still open!

Photo: Flickr, courtesy of each organization