Christmas Shopping: Beijing’s Bazaars and Fayres

The holiday season is starting, and if you are looking for presents that don’t come from Yashow or just want to get a bit of festive cheer, here are a list of events that will fill up your weekends until Christmas.

Sunday, November 20
The Gift Charity Bazaar
The kick-off of the holiday season. The Gift offers both shopping and charity rolled into one. RMB 10, free (under 10). 11am-4pm. Canadian International School of Beijing

Thursday, November 24
The British Embassy Bazaar
The Brits open their embassy residence for a day of mince pies and Christmas gifts. Free. Time TBD. The British Embassy

Saturday November 26
WAB Parent Link Charity Bazaar

Located in Shunyi, this caters to those looking for a family outing. Grab the kids and spend a day surrounded by all things Christmas. Free to attend. 10:30am-3pm.
Western Academy of Beijing

Saturday November 26
German Christmas Charity Bazaar
A charity bazaar thrown by expat German women at the German Embassy with lots of unique handicrafts. Expect tasty German treats as well. Get there early so you’re not stuck waiting in line. Passport required for entry. 11am-5pm. German Embassy

Saturday November 26
Beijing City International School (BCIS) Christmas Bazaar 2011
BCIS in conjunction with MCF (a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching and expanding the educational opportunities available for disadvantaged children living in Beijing) offers a day with over 60 Christmas shopping stalls, live music and performances, a raffle draw, wine tasting, Christmas tree lighting and, of course, Santa Claus himself. Free. 10am-4pm. Beijing City International School

Monday Novenber 28
INN’s 2011 Holiday Charity Event: “Afternoon Tea” at Temple Restaurant Beijing!
Not just a chance for some holiday shopping, but a perfect time to check out the unopened Temple Restaurant. RMB 200, RMB 100 (kids 6-11). Temple Restaurant Beijing

Saturday December 3
Hilton Tree Lighting and Bazaar
This annual event offers the largest tree lighting in Beijing and marks the launch of the Hilton Christmas Train. 2pm Bazaar, 5.30pm Tree Lighting. Hilton Beijing

Sunday December 4
British School of Beijing Christmas Fayre
Grab those gifts as well as some mince pies, mulled wine, and choir carols. RMB 10, free (kids). 11am-3pm. British School of Beijing, Sanlitun Campus.

Saturday, December 10
Christmas Book Bazaar
Books make the best gifts! Buy used books (5rmb-30rmb) and new books at deep discounts. Take a break from your shopping with hot chocolate and The Bookworm’s gingerbread cookies. 10am-1pm. The Bookworm

Sunday December 11
The Hutong Christmas Fayre
The last fayre of the year will celebrate with a warm-winter theme. Expect unique gifts and hot drinks. 10 % of all Christmas Fayre proceeds will be donated towards the Little Flowers Project. Free to attend. 11am-3pm. The Hutong