Who Runs the World? Girls (A Guide to Women's Day)

It doesn't surprise me that International Women's Day's roots are stronger (and more socialist) than its modern day manifestation might suggest, but I suppose that's water under the bridge. This Friday brings a number of specials for the double X chromosome, so we've compiled a quick round-up (beyond the earlier "Community Matters" post) for your reference to celebrating an irreplaceable portion of the population.

Please note that a number of the events require registration so be sure to check the individual events pages for full details including price and time.

SALT will be offering a women's day lunch with two and three course menus. The three course menu choice comes with a free glass of champagne and Catherine de France vouchers.

GREEN T. HOUSE Living will host a brunch cook-off with special guest speakers, art performances and a fashion show with clothes designer Nathan Zhang and jewelry designer Paloma Sanchez. Proceeds from the day will be donated to the Migrant Women's Cooperative.

VIC Restaurant at the Sofitel are doing a two for one (ladies only) lunch and dinner buffet, and Swissotel is also promoting a similar deal to the fairer sex with 50% off dining at the Cafe Swiss buffet on Friday. Women dine for free at Vasco's, Hilton Beijing Wangfujing. To sweeten the deal, they're also offering complimentary vouchers for afternoon tea at a future date.

If you're looking for more than just dining, both Indigo and Parkview Green are offering a slew of specials for a quick afternoon of retail therapy.

Viva Beijing will be celebrating at Tadka at the Marriott Northeast. Beyond the Indian buffet, Viva is auctioning eight mentoring lunches with eight different local business women. Proceeds will support Maidaifu. Or step next door to The Lounge and mingle with fellow expats at InterNations Beijing's for dinner and cocktails with some special surprises for the ladies. In celebration of Beijing's successful women, the 2013 WOW (Wonderful Outstanding Women) Awards also take place on March 8 at The Fairmont with drinks, canapés and a lucky draw.

Brussels celebrates women every Friday with half-price cocktails and shooters for ladies, so stop by Sanlitun until 9 pm on your way down towards Haze where women have free entry all night.