My Dry November: Non-Alcohol-Centric Events Nov 4-8

As my dry November continues, successfully I might add, I started looking for some alternative activities that don't revolve around alcohol. Perhaps unsurprisingly, our Events section is full of interesting happenings that provide you with the opportunity to do something other than staring at the bottom of your glass and all present great new ways to meet people.
 

Until November 15

Happy Valley Halloween
If you thought Halloween was over, you'll be happy to know that Happy Valley Amusement Park is still keeping things creepy over in southeast Beijing. Included are nine distinct haunted regions, haunted houses, graveyards, and even a UFO. One of the haunted houses is 4D ... we hope you're prepared. Prices vary. 5-10pm. Happy Valley Amusement Park


Until December 31

Halloween Hospital Nightmare
I'm not even going to pretend that I'll be doing this as I'm already scared of basically everything that moves, but perhaps this is your thing: the popular escape game, but set in a haunted hospital. Hospital Nightmare promises an immersive experience for those who aren't yet ready to let go of Halloween. Click through for more information about how to book. Runs until December 31. RMB 220, RMB 120 (via Dianping). Various Times. Taiyue Suites


Friday, November 6 - Sunday, November 8

NFL Home Field
Leave the flatbed truck and the ice cooler full of beer at home and head out to The Place this weekend for the final NFL Home Field of the year and your last chance to try this fun and free interactive experience. Power through the running back challenge, snap a photo while leaping for a catch, or just enjoy watching some live football – NFL Home Field has activities for all ages and abilities. Registration information here. 10am-10pm. The Place


Friday, November 6

Chinese chess
Always thought about learning Chinese chess? This is your chance! You'll also have the opportunity to practice your Chinese and meet like-minded friends. Drinks will be provided (pick the non-alcoholic ones!). Register by emailing events@thatsmandarin.com before Thursday, November 4. RMB 50. 7-9pm. That's Mandarin


Friday, November 6 - Sunday, November 8

ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating
Between Friday November 6 and Sunday November 8, you can see some of the world's best figure skaters at the Capital Gymnasium, including reigning Olympic champions Yuzuru Hanyu from Japan and the Russian pair Tatiana Volosozhar and Maxim Trankov. Get your tickets on Damai. RMB 80-680. Various Times. Capital Gymnasium


Sunday, November 8

Who's going to be stealing my job in 10 years, a Peking University graduate or a Yale graduate?
Mike Levy is the author of Kosher Chinese, which was named the first place winner for non-fiction in the Barnes & Noble "Discover Great New Writers" in 2011. He has taught for two decades in both America and China at high school and college level and at this session of Sino-American Talks he'll discuss perceived stereotypes of American and Asian students, explore the difference between the American and the Chinese education systems, and expand on the consequences for both nations. Click here to RSVP. RMB 50. 2pm-3pm. The Courtyard Institute

More stories by this author here.
Email:
 margauxschreurs@truerun.com
Instagram: s.xuagram

Photos courtesy of the organizers