Weekender: The Wind in the Willows, a Teddy Bear’s Picnic, The Nutcracker + Much More!

It’s almost here!!! We imagine all you mamas are as rushed off your feet as we are – but we’ve still got a few great ideas for keeping the littlies (and you!) busy for the upcoming week! Don’t forget the turkey!

Round the river bend… 
Go through the Wild Wild Wood with The Wind In The Willows, performed by a talented young cast from Faust International Youth Theatre and enjoy the funny thrilling antics of Kenneth Grahame’s classic characters, Mole, Ratty, Mr Badger and the unforgettable Toad. This fun family tale looks certain to be another great festive day out!

Where: Drama Theatre, HKAPA, 1 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
When: 16-17 December, 7.30pm; 17-18 December, 2.30pm; 18 December, 11am
How much: Adults $270, Under 18s $220, www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288

Teddy Bear’s Picnic 
Enjoy a delicious Tiffin Teddy Bear Afternoon Tea at the luxurious Palm Court in Langham Hotel – and give something back too. As well as enjoying a host of tasty teatime treats, bring along a present (like a new toy, book or stationery) to give to the Salvation Army, who will donate them to low-income families and disadvantaged children throughout Hong Kong, Macau and China. There will also be a visit from Santa Claus and a gift for all younger guests – plus get your littlie to come in their favourite festive costume (we’re sure they’ll need no encouragement!) and they’ll get a special sticker too.

Where: Palm Court, The Langham, 8 Peking Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2132 7898
When: 17-23 & 25 December, 3-5.30pm
How much: Adults $218, children $138 (19-23 December); adults $248, children $158 (17, 18 & 25 December)

One last fair… 
Just when you thought they were all finished, we’ve got one last pitstop for you to grab your Christmas prezzies at – and it’s a good ‘un! The famous JCCAC Arts & Crafts Fair will include over 100 handcraft artists showcasing their homemade creative wares, including leather accessories, jewellery and unique clothing. There should also be a few craft demonstrations, plus take the opportunity to look round the exhibitions at the JCCAC itself, one of HK’s most interesting heritage buildings.

Where: JCCAC Artist Village, Jockey Club Creative Arts Centre, 30 Pak Tin Street, Shek Kip Mei, Hong Kong, 2353 1311
When: 17-18 December, 1-7pm
How much: Free

You knew it was coming… 
What Christmas would be complete without a performance of The Nutcracker?! The Hong Kong Ballet is staging its annual production of the perennial Christmas classic and the enchanting tale of fairytale princes, battles and ballerinas is certain to be as magical as ever! Kids between 4-8 years old can also participate in a workshop based around the ballet at 10.30am on 17 December ($60, call 2105 9743/2105 9744 or email [email protected] to register). If your littlie still isn’t sated, there’s also a brand new film The Nutcracker In 3D out in all cinemas now too! You’ll be sugarplum-ed out!

Where: Grand Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, 10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
When: 16-18, 20-24 December, 7.30pm; 17, 18, 24-26 December, 2.30pm
How much: $120-1000, www.urbtix.hk, 2111 5999


Curl up with a good book
What with all the running about we’ll be doing this Christmas, us mamas need a sit down once in a while too! There’s nothing more relaxing than curling up on the sofa with a cup of cocoa (or something stronger!) and getting stuck into a good book… and we have plenty of suggestions over at our Sassy Mama Book Club! So take your pick from the light-hearted, hard-hitting, comical or inspirational, and take a well-earned break and put those feet up!

P.S Don’t forget to check out our fab Christmas guides, for all the best festive events, shows, shopping, eating and gift guides!