Beijing's Best Events That Won't Leave You Hungover, Jul 31-Aug 6
Our Events Watch series aims to highlight happenings that aren't focused on alcohol and drinking, but instead take a more educational or productive approach. Events include comedy, talks, networking events, markets, dinners and more.
Monday, Jul 31
Free One-Hour Salsa Lessons
There is officially no acceptable excuse for still having two left feet as of today. Self-love and acceptance are encouraged but so is learning how to dance (or making a complete fool of yourself) and having fun after the first work day of the week. Drop off our blazer at home and sprint down to Nali Patio where you will be treated to some Southern beats, and if you are doing it right, a healthy sweat. Mingle after the lesson and try out some new moves on the dancefloor because we are promised the Latin rhythms into the night. Lesson starts at 9pm. Free entry. Migas
Tuesday, Aug 1
Summer Nights Lacrosse Practice
If this still looks like a device for fishing out some noodles out of the bowl, then, like me, you're probably not one hundred percent sure what lacrosse is. One thing that is for sure is that it involves seemingly frightening devices pairing up with an even more terrifying name for a great load of fun. Test out your fitness abilities (or remember school times) and dive head-first into one of the most kinetic and exciting sports of modern times. All are welcome and gear is provided. 8-10pm. First lesson is free, RMB 60 after. Chaoyang Park
Wednesday, Aug 2
Chinese Film Night and Q&A
Make good for all the times you've tried to squeeze in a Chinese movie night for educational purposes but gave up when the hunt for subtitles proved unfulfilled with Camera Stylo's showing of Lu Chuan's Nanjing! Nanjing!, which details the Japanese occupation, and subsequent massacre of, Nanjing during the second Sino-Japanese War in 1937. Stick around after the film for a Q&A session with a local film critic Xu Jiahan. 7.30pm. Camera Stylo
Thursday, Aug 3
Book Talk With Choo Waihong - The Kingdom of Women
This Thursday, The Bookworm brings the stories from Yunnan's Mosuo Tribe, the last matrilineal and matriarchal society in the world. Author Choo Waihong was the first outsider to move into the community after she became godmother to a young Mosuo girl, living with the tribe, and detailing her experiences in her book The Kingdom of Women. Choo will talk about what she learned from this intriguing time. Read our preview of the event here. 7.30pm. RMB 50, The Bookworm
Friday, Aug 4
Awake LOVE Orchestra: Story-telling Music Journey
Awake Project's team constantly explores various kinds of performing arts from Scandinavia, Europe, USA and even Australia. Join them for a unique experience of gypsy, pop, and classical music spiced up with humorous storytelling. The members of the orchestra set out to mesmerize audiences with the incredible range of vocals, cello, guitars, and percussion. 7.30pm. RMB 60-300. National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA)
Saturday, Aug 5
Pierrick Sorin - A Very Fulfilled Life 1992-2017
Amy Li gallery hosts a retrospective of the contemporary visual artist Pierrick Sorin. The exhibition comprises of 19 works that will drown your senses in colors and sounds and have your mind questioning what exactly it is that you are seeing as the pieces seemingly push the limits of the natural laws. Expect unexpected French humor, surprising combinations, and mixed media galore. 4pm. Amy Li Gallery
Sunday, Aug 6
East Meets West Hutong Tour
An afternoon stroll in hutongs? Seems like a pretty standard set. But there is a plot twist in this one. Instead of focusing on Chinese heritage, the "East meets West" tour takes a special look for Western-style buildings in Beijing. You may have spotted some of them yourself, but what's the story behind them? This tour offers the history to go with the sights, filling in the gaps for some of the details that may go unnoticed as a passerby. RMB 190. 4pm. Biking Café
Images courtesy of the organizers
