Before expats go home for the holidays or take a fun vacation during the December break, many – including myself — flock to holiday bazaars in the city and around the ‘burbs. It’s a great way to buy unique gifts for family and friends, and knowing that these bazaars give back to many charities is an added plus. Two bazaars coming up in Shunyi this month will be held at the River Garden Villas and Western Academy of Beijing.
River Garden Holiday Bazaar, November 20, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.: Free and open to the public, this bazaar will have over 40 vendors, all showcasing Christmas decor or gift-oriented merchandise. Of specific interest to those looking for artificial Christmas trees, one vendor will be selling different sizes and styles of trees at the bazaar, as well as taking orders for larger models typically seen in hotel lobbies. Many food vendors and charities such as UNICEF will be represented, and entertainment will continue throughout the event. All table fees will be donated to a children’s charity.
Address: 7 Yuyang Road, Houshayu, Shunyi District 顺义区后沙峪, 榆阳路 7号
WAB PTA Charity Bazaar, November 27, 10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.: There are over 100 vendors at this much-anticipated event, including 20 charity tables raising funds for many worthy causes. Food vendors, the PTA bake sale, and the used book & toy sale all continue to be of consistent interest during this annual event, and the variety of vendors ensures that you won’t see the same thing twice. Entertainment will continue throughout the day, with bands, choirs, dancers and more. Table fee proceeds go towards building a medical facility for The Surmang Foundation, aiding women and children in the Yushu area (for further information, go to www.surmang.org and www.yushuearthquakesurvival.org).
Address: 10 Lai Guang Ying Dong Lu, Chaoyang District 朝阳区来广营东路10号