The blowout bash that is Chinese New Year doesn’t occur until the end of January, but don’t be fooled into believing that December 31st is just an ordinary night in Beijing.
This city’s clubs, hotels and restaurants certainly know how to lay out a multi-course spread and throw a great party. To bring in the New Year in Asian style, head to Huang Ting at the Peninsula Hotel, where for RMB 588 (adults) or RMB 288 (kids), families can enjoy an eight-course set dinner accompanied by the musical delights of a traditional Chinese ensemble. Guests are invited to Jing Restaurant, also within the hotel, for after-dinner dancing and the countdown to midnight.
For five courses of mouth watering contemporary cuisine and free-flowing bubbly, indulge yourself at SALT’s New Year’s Eve Sparkling Celebration at the price of RMB 688 (or RMB 488 for food only).
If you happen to be looking for a spectacular show to accompany your meal, Block 8 is presenting Cirque Du Shenme, billed as “a performance to remember” for friends and families to enjoy together. Tickets cost RBM 800 or RMB 300 for children and include: a four-course meal by the Med; new world wines and Grey Goose vodka to sip on throughout the night; and a winter-wonderland after-party at I-Ultra, complete with igloos and live performers of the magician and stilt-walking variety.
Finally, for the more adventurous types, the China Culture Centre is offering a hike along the Great wall from Jinshanling to Simatai where you can welcome in 2009 camped in a watchtower and hopefully catch sight of some spectacular fireworks displays. Don’t forget your thermals!
