The Beijing holiday bazaar season is well under way, with festive fayres taking place at schools and Embassy’s across the city. An afternoon at a Christmas bazaar is a great way to start the holiday season, and get everyone into the festive spirit. With gorgeous gifts on sale and tasty treats to sample. Crafts for the children, carols to entertain, and perhaps even a visit from Santa. If you’re looking for things to buy for you, your home, or as gifts for friends, family or colleagues this holiday season, here are some of the best buys you’ll find at some of this year’s bazaars.
Paper Tiger Shanghai
Unique gift wrap paper, inspired by Chinese designs, both traditional and contemporary. A range of originally designed paper, printed on 100% recycled paper with soy-based ink. The paper is designed with two sides to choose from, and is printed on heavier paper stock. Not only does it make your Christmas gifts look great, you can use the extra for paper craft and decorating activities. Paper Tiger products can be found at Tai Tai and for more details see their website www.papertigershanghai.com
Glass Baubles
Beautiful glass baubles from Mary Kate of Tai Tai are the perfect decoration to adorn your Christmas tree, and make a wonderful gift for friends and family. The delicate, hand-painted baubles feature Chinese designs and depict traditional and contemporary scenes. For more details email brownmarykate@yahoo.co.uk
La Place Collection Chocolate
Old European traditions and contemporary influences inspire the flavors of La Place artisan chocolates. Their pure chocolate is made from the finest ingredients, with no preservatives or artificial colors. Fillings are created using cream, nuts, spices, and fruits, with cocoa powder and fruit purees from France, Bourbon vanilla from Madagascar, Jamaica rum, and dried fruits and nuts from the US and the Mediterranean. Their festive selection box includes a white chocolate snowman, milk and white chocolate snowflake, and a very tasty Christmas tree. For more information and to order contact (6466 8090, service@laplaceC.com) www.laplaceC.com
SewGorgeous Wreath
Sew Gorgeous is a community project in Shunyi run by volunteers. The project makes textile items to raise money and teaches sewing and tailoring to local disadvantaged students. The students at Love and Hope have made special wreaths/door hangers for sale this festive season, with all money raised going towards improving the facilities at their school. For more information email sewgorgeous@outlook.com and visit their Facebook page www.facebook.com/sewgorgeousproject
Sausage in a Bun
This is one thing you’ll buy at a bazaar that won’t make it home with you. Andy’s Craft Sausages, served sizzling hot, in a soft hot dog roll, with plenty of ketchup. Perfect for lunch for you and the kids, to sustain you through all that shopping, carol singing, and those craft activities. If you do want to try some at home, you can order online at www.beijingsausages.com
beijingkids Shunyi Correspondent Sally Wilson moved to Beijing in 2010 from the UK with her husband and son. Her daughter was born here in 2011 and both her kids keep her happily busy. In her spare time, Sally loves to stroll through Beijing’s hutongs and parks. She is a (most of the time) keen runner and loves reading: books, magazines, news, and celeb websites – anything really. Sally is also a bit of a foodie and loves trying out new restaurants.
Photos: courtesy of Paper Tiger, Sally Wilson, Sew Gorgeous
