Moving to Beijing just in time for the Spring Festival was an unexpected delight. I had heard about the vibrancy of the celebrations, but experiencing the famous temple fairs firsthand was truly eye-opening.
On a cloudy Saturday, we decided to visit two temple fairs. Our first stop was something new even for seasoned visitors: an AI and robotics-themed temple fair in Wukesong. Excited and unsure of what to expect, we arrived with a few hours of daylight left.
The venue was a mix of outdoor and indoor areas, and the festive attractions were easy to spot. Our adventure began with a robot football match! Child-sized robots, controlled remotely, dashed around a makeshift pitch, pivoting and turning energetically to reach the ball, tackle opponents, and occasionally score a goal. Each time the net rippled, the crowd erupted in cheers, thrilled by this innovative twist on the world’s most popular sport.
But the surprises didn’t end there. In the next atrium, a concert was underway—not with human musicians, but robots playing drums, keyboards, and guitars. The crowd loved this literal “metal” band. Throughout the mall’s six floors, robotic attractions were everywhere. In the food court, robots served ice cream and mixed fruit cocktails, while a robotic arm expertly cooked french fries, drawing the longest lines. Children were especially intrigued, engaging in robot battles and playing robo-basketball. It was a jaw-dropping glimpse into the future, presented in the most festive and engaging way.
Eager to catch our next destination before dusk, we headed to the well-known Liulichang Cultural Street. Exiting the Hepingmen subway station, we joined throngs of people drawn to the lantern-lit streets. The entrance greeted us with rows of red lanterns and an adorable “Year of the Snake” installation. The air was filled with the aroma of traditional delicacies—from spun sugar candies shaped like animals to the ever-present tanghulu (candied fruits on skewers).
As we strolled along, the lanterns became even more elaborate, and the historic buildings on either side showcased intricate architectural details. Vendors sold hand-held windmill fans that clicked joyfully when waved, and bulb-lit headdresses were all the rage. Liulichang is renowned as a cultural hub, and we soon found ourselves exploring art studios filled with traditional paintings, scrolls, and calligraphy. The shopkeepers were friendly and welcoming, happy to let us admire and photograph their works.
Captivated by the artistry, I couldn’t resist purchasing a small painting as a memento. As we made our way home, our bags filled with treasures and our hearts full of joy, I felt grateful to carry a piece of Beijing’s rich heritage with me—an enduring reminder of my first Spring Festival in this incredible city.
