Events That Won't Leave You Hungover, Sep 10-16

Our Events Watch series aims to highlight happenings that aren't focused on alcohol and drinking, but instead take a more educational or productive approach. Events include comedy, talks, networking events, markets, and dinners.
 

Monday, Sep 10

O'Steak Loves Teachers!
Yes, Meatless Mondays are picking up steam but should you wish to swing in the opposite direction, O'Steak invites all teachers to enjoy a 20 percent discount today as a celebration of Teacher's Day. Simply turn up with your official teacher's ID and get a fifth off the venue's steak and other French grub such as foie gras, escargots, Burgundy beef, and chicken cordon-bleu. Free. 11am-11pm. O'Steak
 

Tuesday, Sep 11

WAB Distinguished Speakers Series: We Carry Kevan
On Tuesday, WAB will hold the first in their Distinguished Speaker Series, aimed at shining light on those individuals who have fought against the odds to achieve something amazing. Fittingly, the first people invited to speak at the event are Kevan Chandler and his friends who garnered worldwide attention after they set off on a trip through Europe. Chandler, who is disabled, was carried by his friends in a backpack for the entire journey and are now using the experience to help "redefine accessibility for people with disabilities." Free. 6-7.30pm. Founders' Theatre of WAB
 

Wednesday, Sep 12

Manchester Camerata and Jean-Efflam Bavouzet at the NCPA
Described by The Times as “probably Britain’s most adventurous orchestra,” the Manchester Camerata come to Beijing under the direction of Hungarian conductor Gábor Takács-Nagy. Another prominent violinist in the orchestra, the award-winning pianist Jean-Efflam Bavouzet will premiere a new work by Harry Harrison as well as play a programme of works by Mozart. RMB 80-500. 7.30pm. National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA)
 

Thursday, Sep 13

Air Quality in Beijing
The Swedish Chamber of Commerce in Beijing invites Lauri Myllyvirta, a climate and energy campaigner at Greenpeace, to discuss the current air pollution situation in the capital. As part of his role at Greenpeace, Myllyvirta has mapped air pollution levels and trends in China, analyzing where air quality is improving, why pollution is so bad around Beijing, what the implications of last year's ambitious action plan entail, and what can you do to protect yourself. RMB 300, RMB 150 (members) (includes wine and snacks). 6.30-8.30pm. The Bookworm
 

Friday, Sep 14

Slowdive
Seminal English shoegazers Slowdive hit up Tango 3F on Friday for one of the biggest gigs of the year. Originally formed over three decades ago, the band reunited in 2014 and released their eponymous fourth album in 2017. Their first time in China, they'll also be hitting up Shanghai at this year's Concrete and Grass festival on Sunday. See out top five song picks to get you in the mood. RMB 350, RMB 300 (advance). 8.30pm. Tango 3F
 

Saturday, Sep 15

BlackEXPO
BlackEXPO returns for its latest installment this Saturday at 27 Yuan (a previous event is pictured at the top of this blog). The day serves to "illuminate the positive contributions of the [black] community here in Beijing," and to "highlight our businesses and a need for space to grow together as friends, community, and supporters ... and have a good time while doing it." Expect food, accessories, and art as well as booths dedicated to raising awareness about local black businesses, services, and talents therein. RMB 20. Midday-6pm. 27 Yuan

The Pigeon Social Club: An Open Air Urban Experience at 5Lmeet Guomao
5Lmeet's Guomao rooftop space plays host to a health bonanza this Saturday. Organized by Hatchery, Beijing's primo food incubator, the so-called Pigeon Social Club is an "immersive adventure featuring a whole day of curated experiences," including smoothie bowls, yoga, drink 'n’ draw, kite flying, food and beverage stalls, and DJs. Simply browse the schedule and then opt and pay for which of the activities speak to you. RMB 68-248. 10am-10pm. 5Lmeet
 

Sunday, Sep 16

Rumble in the Jumble
"Born out of a love for British jumble sales and American thrift stalls," Rumble in the Jumble's monthly market is a hub for makers of all things haberdashery and homemade, including baking, clothing, jewelry, books, vintage goods, and more. Head to Modernista this Sunday to browse some of the best homemade goodies the city has to offer and make some friends in the process. Free. Midday-6pm. Modernista

For a comprehensive list of this week's events (to keep you sober or otherwise) click here.

Photos: buildandbe.com, courtesy of the promoters, beijing-kids.com