[Photo via VCG]

Beijing's parks have launched 34 cultural activities for the upcoming National Day holiday, including exhibitions and educational sessions.

Flower viewing

The Osmanthus Festival in the Summer Palace will last until October 21. Visitors can enjoy the National Day-themed flower terraces at the East Palace Gate of the Summer Palace, and the sweet osmanthus at North Ruyi Gate, the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, and the Garden of Virtue and Harmony.

The autumn orchid exhibition and flower show for the National Day in Zhongshan Park are also notable attractions. Chrysanthemum lovers can visit the China National Botanical Garden (North Garden) and Beijing International Flower Port, while those who have an affinity for the beauty of ginkgo can get an eyeful of it at Yuanmingyuan Park.

Visitors can also go to the antique photo exhibition at the Huafang House and Chanfu Temple of Beihai Park, or the painting exhibition themed on Beijing as an ancient capital in Jingshan Park.

Activities for the Double Ninth Festival

The Double Ninth Festival is celebrated on the ninth day of the ninth month on the Chinese lunar calendar, which falls on October 4 this year. It has long been a day for Chinese to show love and appreciation for seniors. Fragrant Hills Park will stage performances in its Zhiyuanzhai Yard (致远斋), and hold festive cake-making activities for visitors. Residents in the city can also go to Zizhuyuan Park to participate in the cultural activities held at the festival. In Yuyuantan Park, there will be eco-friendly activities, during which senior citizens can visit the wetlands there and experience how to make handicrafts. In Wanshou Park, there will be a whole week of cultural activities for the festival.

Family activities

Shuangxiu Park will hold tree planting activities and science activities. The Central Green Forest Park in Tongzhou will host the second season of Happy Water World, where children can play on swings and seesaws at the non-powered amusement area.

Children aged 4-14 can also participate in the Spartan Race for Kids (Outdoor Obstacle Race) in Beijing Expo Park in Yanqing. The Puppet Festival and Family Magic Festival in Nanhaizi Park will invite actors and actresses from China Puppet Art Theater and China Acrobats Association to put on wonderful performances for children.

Online activities

Tiantan Park will hold an online intangible cultural heritage exhibition and the "Colorful Temple of Heaven" drawing activity. Thanks to such online activities, residents can enjoy the fun Tiantan Park offers at home.

(Source: The Beijing News)