Mother’s day is two weekends away on May 8, but popular places with limited space fill up fast. Dads and kids can register or sign up for performances, sports, workshops, lunches and brunches to treat the most special lady of all. We’ve drummed up plenty of gift ideas here and laid out a how-to guide here for a surprise trip out of town.
Dining
Mother’s Day Lunch at Raffles Beijing
All ages. French restaurant, Jaan has come up with an mouth watering three-course menu for the whole family that features different selections of appetizers, main courses, and decadent desserts. RSVP required. RMB 288 (15 percent service charge not included). 11.30am-2pm. Raffles Hotel Beijing (6526 3388, dining.beijing@raffles.com)
Mother’s Day Treat at Four Season’s Opus Lounge
All ages. All accompanied moms by their kids will receive receive a rose, a cake, and a box of three pralines. In addition, they will get a glass of Bellini champagne.RSVP required. Noon-3pm. Please contact Opus for price. Opus Lounge (5695 8532)
Mother’s Day Brunch at Westin Chaoyang Beijing
All ages. Enjoy Sunday brunch at Seasonal Tastes that will be offering a good selection of buffet choices of seafood, meats, Asian dishes, desserts, and more. RSVP required. All prices are subject to 15 percent service charge.RMB548 (Champagne package), RMB388 (non alcoholic package), RMB 198 (Kid’s package). 11am-3pm. Westin Chaoyang Beijing (5922 8888 ext 8178)
Mother’s Day Live Jazz+ Champagne Brunch at The Great Wall, May 8
Ages 5+ Champagne, roses, live jazz, elegant buffet, and activities for the kids. Come out to the fresh air at Mutianyu and enjoy the flower filled Brickyard garden. RMB 140-290. 11am-4pm. The Brickyard Retreat Center at Mutianyu Great Wall (6162 6506, info@brickyardatmutianyu.com)
Performances
Beijing Playhouse presents Rapunzel
Ages 6+. Beijing Playhouse’s first ever children’s show, Rapunzel is going to be performed with children sitting on the floor and the actors performing in the center. The show is structured to last one hour for one act only. Families can treat mom to a different kind of show this Mother’s Day. RSVP required. Tickets can be booked via email. RMB 150 (adults), RMB 80 (kids). 2-3pm. Eagle International Performing Arts Center (childrenstheatre@beijingacademyofperformingarts.com)
Sports
Mother’s Day Yoga at The Brickyard
For adults. Headover to The Brickyard to take part in a stretching and relaxing yoga morning with guidance from a professional instructor against the Great Wall backdrop. Yoga mats and fresh towels supplied. Water and herbal teas offered.Breakfast buffet included. RMB 288. 7.30-11am. The Brickyard Inn at Mutianyu (6162-6506, info@brickyardatmutianyu.com)
2016 Harrowthon
Ages 16+. The annual 10km family run is back again and features live performances by students, as well as games and activities for kids. Proceeds will go to Roundabout’s various charitable causes. Registration required. RMB 100. 8am-noon. Harrow International School Beijing (www.harrowbeijing.cn/events/2016-05-08-harrowthon.aspx#reg)
Activities
Mother and Daughter Jewelry Class
Ages 7+. This special event promises to be a wonderful bonding moment for moms and daughters. JZ Jewelry walks attendees in step by step through a beautiful jewelry creation. Limited to six people per class. Designs go home. Register before Apr 30 for a 10 percent discount. RMB 500. 9.30am-noon. JZ Jewelry Workshop (Samantha – 182 1063 4921)
History of China in Fifty Objects Tour, May 8
All ages. Mothers who attend the New York Times inspired tour will receive a free spot if attended with their children. Free, but space limited and RSVP required. RMB 190 adults RMB 120 kids under 14. 2.00–4.00pm. Newman Tours (Newmantours.com)
Photos: Courtesy of Raffles Beijing, Beijing Playhouse; azwestern.edu, ilovemudgee.com
