Themed light shows, late-night museum hours, and nighttime ice skating and skiing are part of Beijing's new efforts to warm up the evening during winter. The city's Municipal Commerce Bureau announced seven new measures to continue enhancing its nighttime consumer activities.
The Chinese capital in July launched 13 measures to promote nighttime consuming spending, concentrating on major commercial hubs such as Sanlitun, Wukesong, Qianmen, as well as various large residential suburbs including Tiantongyuan and Huilongguan.
With the arrival of the winter season, the commerce bureau is working to build on the momentum of growing its "nighttime economy" from the summer. A bureau official said the new measures are based on a principle of "oriented by the market, guided by the government, and based on categories." The goal is to provide consumers with more options during the night time and ensure the consumer experience is safe and warm throughout the winter.
Aside from the light shows, museums, and sporting activities, Beijing also aims to launch themed cultural activities, brand promotions, late-night eateries, and other promotional campaigns. In particular, certain museums will permanently extend opening hours, self-service libraries will be open 24 hours, and certain commercial hubs will hold nighttime book clubs, fairs, and music activities. For enthusiasts of winter sports, skating and skiing venues will also be available in the evening hours.
Some of the highlights are: more night shows at Laoshe Teahouse, extended opening hours at National Museum and Capital Museum on Saturdays, skiing at night at Shijinglong, and extended hours of Time-honored Brand stores such as Qingfeng.
According to the commerce bureau official, Beijing will publish a "Consumer Guide to 'Beijing Night' Winter Edition" at the end of December, featuring the city's landmarks, commercial hubs, and information for restaurants, entertainment, and shopping venues during the night time.
