TGIF: Make the Most of Your Weekend With These Killer Activities
The weekend is here! Time for fun, relaxation, and recharging the ol' batteries ahead of *gulp* Monday morning's alarm clock. Luckily enough, there’s plenty of fun stuff to keep you occupied over the weekend that doesn't necessarily involve getting blitzed. Our TGIF roundup offers you some of the best.
Bag some niche items at vintage markets
Beijing used to have a rich Ghost Markets scene, where the city's hoarders would drag their most prized wares out into the night to exchange with fellow collectors. While few of these unique markets remain (one of our favorites that still convenes is Daliushu Ghost Market, pictured at top, located by the East Fourth Ring Road), El Nido is intent to keep the spirit alive, bringing together a number of vintage, antique, and secondhand goods sellers this Sunday. Head down to browse and get your hands on some incredible curios, including vintage clocks, cameras, records, clothes, and jewelry. Free. Sunday, 2pm. El Nido
Take a Chinese calligraphy class
Brush up (har-har) on your Chinese calligraphy skills at this two-hour workshop. At a pace defined best as "not a care in the world," this courtyard-based class is one of the most leisurely ways to spend your Saturday afternoon. Never practiced calligraphy before? No worries! The teacher on hand will guide you through how to perfect your stroke and master the art of Chinese character writing. The hostel also provides everything you need to create your own works of art with nothing more than a brush, paper, and some ink. RMB 40 (all materials included). Saturday, 2-4pm. Beijing Fly by Knight Hostel
Dance your weekend away
Beijing is home to a vibrant dance community, with countless dance studios offering a class for almost every single genre of dance imaginable. Click through to browse our introductory guide for any and all aspiring dancers looking to get their feet wet in the world of dance. If these don't suit your needs, just keep in mind that one visit to any of the studios within and meeting likeminded individuals is likely to unlock the door to your Beijing dancing career. Various prices and venues
Enjoy the otherworldly sounds of Tuvan throat singing
Arguably, the most iconic band from the Republic of Tuva, Huun Huur Tu takes to the stage this Saturday at the National Library Concert Hall. Since their founding in 1992, Huun Huur Tu has had a central role in promoting ancient khöömei (throat singing) music and Tuvan culture in general, spellbinding crowds across around the world with their otherworldly sound and incredible musicianship. Apart from the arresting throat singing, expect to see them work their way through a beautiful ensemble of traditional instruments spanning everything from blowing horns, hang drums, didgeridoos, horse-head fiddles, doshpuluur lutes, and jaw harps. Read about our preview of the show here. RMB 100-500. 9pm Saturday. National Library Concert Hall
Experience inner peace at Tao Yoga
Basing its teachings on Taoist philosophy, Tao Yoga focuses specifically on self-healing, restoring vibrant health, and self-transformation through the art of mind-body harmony. This 90-minute introductory class will utilize gentle movement, stretching, breathwork, visualization, and meditation to balance, harmonize, strengthen, and heal the body. Contact certified instructor Nancy (WeChat ID: NancyYZhou) for more information. Price TBA. Sunday, 10-11.30am.
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Photos courtesy of event organizers
