Don’t miss this week’s five excellent events that are fun for the whole family. E-mail newsletter@beijing-kids.com to get each issue sent to your inbox, or check the beijingkids website for full event listings online (www.beijing-kids.com).
Thursday June 25 – Summer Sizzler
Temperatures are set to skyrocket this Thursday – there’s only one thing to do – cool off. Deck the kids out in their swimsuits and let them play in the giant water fountains at Solana or at the Village in Sanlitun.
Don’t forget: Stop off at Cold Stone Creamery for an icy cold treat.
Friday June 26 – All Aboard the Green Train
Environmental advocates Mark Thirlwall and Vinny Ng, co-founders of the China Charity Challenge (CCC), are hosting Green Train – an after-work bicycle ride through Beijing to demonstrate the alternatives to carbon polluting methods of transport. Beginning at 7pm from the north end of Wangfujing, riders will make their way through the Ritan Embassy area, Guomao, CBD, and Workers’ Stadium, en-route to Sanlitun Village for a post-event celebration at Blue Frog.
Don’t forget: Take plenty of water to drink. It’s hot, hot, hot this week so it’s important to stay hydrated.
Saturday June 27 – Set Sail Weekend (only two hours away by train!)
Head for the open sea at Beidaihe. Packages include sailing lessons for all levels (from first-time sailors to experts), transport, hotel accommodation and meals as well as lifejackets and safety equipment for RMB 1,700 (RMB 1,360 for members). Put your newly acquired (or refreshed) nautical skills to the test in the Sunday morning race! Contact Beijing Sailing Center on 1500 118 9580 or sailing@beijingsailing.com to reserve your place.
Don’t forget: Wear gloves. The last thing you want after a day on the sea is rope burn from knot-tying and pulling on the sails.
Sunday June 28 – Saddle up
Head off on an all-day horseback adventure to an unrestored section of the Great Wall. Other activities for the day include hiking, swimming in the area’s stunning natural waters and visiting Qinglong Gorge, where adventurers can bungee jump or take a serene boat ride. The day also features a visit to a local farmer’s house for a yummy lunch. Full-day package RMB 400 per person (includes transport, lunch, and horse riding). Departs from the bus transfer hall at Dongzhimen subway station (directly opposite McDonald’s) at 8.45am. E-mail George (ptpbj_cn@yahoo.cn) or call him at 136 9302 6428 to reserve a space.
Don’t forget: Take your camera. Spectacular surrounds are guaranteed on this trip.
Sunday June 28 – Canada Day, eh?
The annual Canada Day celebration is chock-full of great family-friendly activities! Feast on barbeque spread and let little ones play in the kids’ corner. Don’t miss the hot chili pepper-eating contest, sponsored by Immersion Guides – flex those taste buds in this hotter than hot event! Younger ones may want to stick to milder foods, but it’s still fun to watch the adults break a sweat! For details, call 8526 1820 or e-mail bj.events@ccbc.com.cn. The Canadian International School
Don’t forget: Dress-up in your red and whites!