Whiskey, Art, and Produce: Beijing's Best Markets, Bazaars, and Fairs (April Edition)
We're currently enjoying some of the best weather of the year right now, which also means there are even more fun events than usual going on around the city for you to enjoy. Couple that with a public holiday, and bam! not a single reason not to get out to the many local markets and fairs taking place over the next few days.
Qingming Weekend Festivals
Apr 5-7: Woodstock of Eating
The friendly community Woodstock of Eating market returns this Qingming weekend with mountains of food prepared by vendors like Smash a Cup, Picture Beer, and many, many more. There'll also be live music and entertainment on site to keep you entertained while you stuff your belly full. RMB 80, RMB 50 (advance). 11am-7pm. Dawangjing Central Park VR Plaza
Apr 5-7: Spring Awakening Fair
This three-day indoor market will host over 30 vendors and pop-up shops, offering various types of artistic handiworks including tableware, publications from independent design workshops, souvenirs, handmade purses, earrings, tea sets, and other knick-knacks, as well as live music by local bands. As always, it's family friendly and makes for a great day out. Free. 10am-10pm. Winter Garden
Apr 6-7: Whisky+ Festival
For something a little boozier, Sanlitun is about to be submerged in an ocean of whiskey this weekend as one of the city’s largest ever whiskey festivals touches down in Chao Hotel. The event will include over 2,000 whiskeys from over 100 brands from around the world. The RMB 169 ticket price gets you entrance into the festival for one day as well as a tasting cup, three sample bottles of the golden good stuff, a bag, drinks, and a voucher for on-site games. For an extra fee, you can also sign up to a variety of master classes throughout the weekend hosted by renowned distillers and experts. RMB 169 per day. Saturday, 2-10pm; Sunday, 1-7pm. Chao Hotel
Apr 6: Three Shadows Art Fair
The 11th Three Shadows Photography Award Exhibition kicks off this Friday with an exciting opening ceremony to unveil the award winners alongside a photography-themed art market featuring books, independent publications, photographic equipment, artistic picture frames, and snacks. There'll also be live music and lectures throughout the day. RMB 60, RMB 50 (advance). 11am-5.30pm. Three Shadows Art Centre
Every Saturday: Chuzou Creative Market
Located in the artists’ community of Songzhuang, Chuzou Coffee acts a meeting point for many of the young artists who own workshops or live nearby. This market therefore is a great place to buy an array of local products such as pottery, leather wares, wooden sculptures, paintings, as well as artisanal food. We're particularly fond of the great selection of second-hand items to be found here, available for bargain prices. Free. 11am-6pm. Chuzou Coffee Shop
Every Monday, Saturday, and Sunday: Beijing Farmers' Market
Since its first event in 2018, Beijing Farmers' Market remains 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, skin care 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 (click here for Beijing Farmers' Market April schedule).
Every Saturday and Sunday: Farm to Neighbors (F2N)
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. Like the previous event, please bring your own shopping bags along. Free. Midday-6pm. B1, Grand Summit
READ: Films Not to Miss at This Year's Beijing International Film Fest, Apr 13-20
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Photos: courtesy of event organizers
