When it comes to Beijing September events, the city comes alive with festivals, markets, foodie gatherings, and unique cultural experiences. September in Beijing isn’t just about cooler weather and golden autumn skies — it’s also the month of limited-time happenings that you won’t find at any other time of year.
At Our Beijing, we believe the best way to experience the city is through its adventures — from wild Great Wall hikes to hutong explorations. But if you’re here this September, these events will add even more flavor to your stay.
Back after a break, the Ditan Book Fair is one of the most beloved cultural Beijing September events. With more than 30 years of history, it has become a tradition for locals to browse stalls filled with rare vintage editions, second-hand treasures, new releases, and cultural merchandise. You’ll also find calligraphy tools, art prints, and snacks scattered around the historic park.
👉 Pro Tip: Pair your book-hunting day with our Hutong Hidden Gems Experience for a deep dive into Beijing’s cultural soul.
Known as “The Happiest 5K on the Planet,” the Color Run is a one-day-only event in Beijing this year. Join thousands of participants running (or walking!) through bursts of colored powder, high-energy music zones, and carnival vibes. It’s as much about fun and photos as it is about fitness.
👉 If you love active adventures, don’t miss Our Beijing’s Wild Great Wall Hikes, where you can swap running shoes for hiking boots and conquer untamed mountain paths.
Celebrate Beijing’s most iconic street food — the crispy, savory jianbing. With more than 200 vendors reimagining this breakfast staple, you’ll discover everything from truffle-infused jianbing to vegetarian-friendly twists. Add in live music, a lakeside park setting, and a ferris wheel, and you’ve got one of the most unique foodie Beijing September events.
👉 Hungry for more? Explore our Beijing Foodie Tours for dumplings, hutong snacks, and hidden markets beyond the festival.
For carb lovers, this is paradise. The Beijing International Bread Festival gathers bakers from across the world to showcase their breads, pastries, and baked creations. From French baguettes to Japanese melon bread, it’s a three-day feast that attracts foodies citywide. Expect long lines but also unforgettable bites.
👉 Make it a foodie adventure: after filling up on bread, balance it out with an Our Beijing cycling tour to work off those carbs while exploring hidden hutongs.
Raise a glass at the Beijing Cocktail Festival, one of the most stylish Beijing September events. With 90+ bars and 300+ creative cocktails, it’s a paradise for cocktail lovers. You’ll also find live music, bartender showdowns, and a buzzing social scene.
Calling all caffeine fans: the Youth Coffee Festival brings together 100+ coffee shops, creative brands, and food stalls in a lively open-air plaza. Expect tasting booths, latte art battles, music performances, and endless opportunities to meet Beijing’s young creative community.
👉 Coffee first, then culture: continue your day with our Our Beijing Hutong Experience, where you’ll discover authentic hidden gems in the city.
Meat lovers, rejoice! The Beijing BBQ Festival gathers flavors from across the globe — Brazilian churrasco, American BBQ, Mexican tacos — all with live music to set the vibe. It’s smoky, flavorful, and one of the most mouth-watering Beijing September events.
Although technically starting at the end of August, the China International Coffee Expo is a must-see if you’re in Beijing. With 200+ brands, three themed exhibition areas, and plenty of opportunities to taste and learn, it’s considered the country’s premier coffee industry gathering.
Looking for quirky finds? The Xinqiao Creative Market is one of the most vibrant Beijing September events, hosting 400+ stalls selling handmade crafts, retro goods, art, and creative lifestyle products. It’s a great place to support local makers and bring home unique souvenirs.
👉 Combine your market stroll with our Our Beijing Hutong Bike Tour, where hidden alleys reveal the city’s most authentic corners.
Q: Are these events family-friendly?
A: Many are! The Ditan Book Fair, Bread Festival, and Jianbing Festival are perfect for families. Events like the Cocktail and BBQ Festivals are better suited for adults.
Q: Should I buy tickets in advance?
A: Yes for paid events such as The Color Run, Jianbing Festival, and Cocktail Festival. Free-entry events like the Book Fair or Bread Festival usually allow walk-ins.
Q: How can I plan my trip around these events?
A: Mix and match! For example, enjoy the Jianbing Festival in the morning, then join an Our Beijing Hutong Tour in the afternoon. Or balance the BBQ Festival with a Wild Great Wall Hike the next day.
September is one of the best months to explore Beijing — not only for its crisp autumn skies but also for its limited-time events. From foodie festivals to creative markets, these Beijing September events showcase the city’s cultural energy and adventurous spirit.
👉 Want to go beyond the events and experience Beijing like a local?
Check out Our Beijing Adventures and let us design your next unforgettable journey.