Community Matters: Irish Carnival in Chaoyang and DIY Chocolate Hearts

Happy Chinese New Year! With Spring Festival celebrations in full swing and Valentine’s Day just 24 hours away, there is more than enough going on to keep us busy over the next few days. For traditional New Year’s crafts, performances, food and fun, simply hit up one of the city’s many Temple Fairs taking place in parks and temples over the week. Chaoyang Park is holding it’s usual international themed carnival with Ireland as the country of honor this year. You can expect Irish jigs, food and hopefully beer, but the most exciting addition is the Macnas street theater performers who are moving around the park and entertaining crowds with traditional Irish folklore. For a more local experience, head to Ditan Park, which is jammed with traditional snack stalls, serving sweets and fried goodies, including more obscure things like barbequed crickets on a stick. See our full guide to the fairs, with transportation info and lunch recommendations, here.

On Valentine’s Day the Hutong has two fun cooking events lined up: Make your own Chocolate and a Valentine’s Dinner Cook Off. For a classic Valentine’s night out with your loved one, our dining events page is loaded with fancy stuff, but we also have a list of cheaper and more simple date options here.

That’s all for this week. Hope you enjoy the romance and fireworks over the holiday.

Photos: Baking History, Macnas.com