Beijing's Best Upcoming Markets, Bazaars, and Fairs

Weary of oh-so-impersonal Taobao and soulless shopping malls? Then get ready to open your wallet wide for the creative vendors slinging distinctive wares at these local markets and bazaars.

Upcoming markets

Oct 12: Rumble in the Jumble

It's time for one of our favorite markets in the city, Rumble in the Jumble. Every month, organizers choose a different theme for their“jumble sale” with Beijing characteristics, and try to select vendors accordingly. This month’s theme is The Future is Now. Curious about what kind of vendors this particular theme will attract? Come check it out at Tech Temple this Saturday. Free. Midday-6pm. Tech Temple (Dongsi Branch)

Oct 13: Curios and Antiques Market

Once upon a time, Beijing had a thriving Ghost Market scene, where the city's hoarders would drag their most prized wares out into the night to exchange with curious fellow collectors. While very few of these unique markets remain, El Nido is intent on keeping the spirit alive, bringing together a number of vintage, antique, and secondhand goods sellers albeit during the daylight hours. Head down to browse and get your hands on some incredible curios, including vintage clocks, cameras, records, clothes, and jewelry. Free. 2pm. El Nido

Oct 13: Family Fair & Picnic 2019

New in town? Expat Connection's annual Family Fair and Picnic may be just what you need, providing a great place to meet Beijingers old and new, locals and expats, as well as to enjoy food and drinks from various Beijing-based vendors. There is also a whole range of family-oriented activities including pony riding, climbing, and arts and crafts to keep you and the little ones entertained all day long. Read more about what to expect here. Free. 11am-6pm, Sunday. Canadian International School of Beijing (CISB)

Oct 13: Best of British Festival

The Best of British Festival is an annual event aimed at raising awareness about the various entrepreneurs, innovators, small enterprises and charities with links to the UK; to highlight British products and services; and celebrate the success that small British businesses are finding in China! There will be afternoon tea, fish and chips, bangers and mash, and (of course) Indian food. On top of this tasty nosh, there will be plenty of live entertainment, a raffle every 2 hours and a panel discussion on doing business in China. Free. 11am-5pm. The Ritz-Carlton

Oct 19-20: 2019 Beijing Pizza Fest

Beijing Pizza Fest 2019 is back on, returning to Galaxy Soho on Saturday and Sunday, Oct 19-20. This year, we're also sticking to our Ancient Roman and toga theme, setting the scene for a true feast of Bacchanalian proportions.

For this year's fest, we've got a host of brand-new pizza purveyors and all the craft beer that will round out any meal. Also, to get you in the frame of mind to befit such an occasion, we're giving each and every one of you the opportunity to buy an entire toga outfit along with your ticket ahead of this year's Pizza Festival. Get your ticket package here. RMB 20-60. 11am-8pm. Galaxy Soho

Oct 19-20: OCDC Aesthetics Sharing Festival

In collaboration with OCDC, 5L Meet is organizing an outdoor bazaar at their beautiful rooftop this weekend. Many of the vendors will be popular fashion design brands, along with other vendors offering everything from arty crafts, to books and drinks. Interested? You can either come to browse or join in the exchange yourself: simpy bring along with items that you think have aesthetic value to either sell on the site or exchange with other vendors. Free. 11am-7pm. 5L Meet

Oct 19-20: Train Market

Around 80 artists, musicians, designers, and collectors and other vendors will be taking over the 751D. Park at 798 Art Zone this weekend, for a super fun day of artistic wares, vintage clothes, ornaments, food, with live performances. There will also be a DIY section where you can get crafty and creative. Free. 10am-7pm. 751D Park

Oct 20: Camera Stylo Vintage Market

Hutong cinema venue hero Camera Stylo is hosting a vintage market Sunday, Oct 20, where over 20 vendors will be selling clothes, antiques, film cameras, and a whole host of other treasures from yonder-year. If you're a fan of unique, one-of-a-kind finds you won't want to miss this one. Free. 1.30-7pm. Camera Stylo

Oct 26: Beijing Flea Market

The Beijing Flea Market Autumn Edition is back on Saturday, Oct 26. Come down and check out cool local vendors selling everything from clothing, to handicrafts, to food and much, much more, and help support local artists and artisans. Free. Noon-6pm. TechTemple (Sanlitun Branch)

Oct 26-27: Hutong Art Festival

Hutong Art Festival (HAF) is a two-day event that celebrates locally-created comics, illustrations, and storytelling. They feature creations from independent artists, professionals, brands, collectives to offer postcards, posters, fridge magnets, zines, comics, photography prints, handcrafted jewelry, and other artworks. Free. 11am-7pm. Big & Small Coffee (Beiluo branch)

Ongoing Markets

Every Saturday: Xiaopu Village Street Market

Located in the artists’ community of Songzhuang, Chuzou Coffee acts as a meeting point for many of the young artists who own workshops or live nearby. That means this market is a great place to buy a range of local products such as pottery, leather wares, wooden sculptures, paintings, and more. We're particularly fond of the great selection of secondhand items to be found here, available for bargain prices. Free. 4-8pm. Chuzou Coffee Shop

Every Tuesday, Saturday, and Sunday: Beijing Farmers' Market

Since its first iteration in 2018, Beijing Farmers' Market has remained one of the most popular pop-up food markets in the city. Here you'll find organically grown food, artisanal cheeses, meats, vegan products, baked goods, herbs, skincare products, textiles, and more. In keeping with the farmers' market spirit, please bring your own shopping bags to minimize waste. Free. 10am-2pm. Various locations (follow WeChat account ID: countryfair to find updated market schedules)

Every Saturday and Sunday: Farm to Neighbors

Advocating a zero-waste lifestyle, Farm to Neighbors (F2N) market offers fresh local vegetables and fruits, Beijing-made cheeses, bread, cookies, and numerous other delicious goodies. In keeping with the spirit of the other eco-friendly events on this list, please bring your own shopping bags along. Free. Midday-6pm. B1, Grand Summit

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Email: kuang@thebeijinger.com

Photos courtesy of event organizers