The Olympic Games are nigh and Beijing will be imminently flocked with tourists keen for the spectacle of world-class sport. Fortunately, when it comes to entertainment for tourist-y rugrats, Beijing is certainly able to deliver. If you are visiting Beijing, have visitors in town, or are just stuck here for the summer, these hot entertainment options will keep you busy during this historic Olympic period.

It goes without saying that China’s remarkable acrobatic troupes are a must-see for all children, big and little. Those flying entertainers in their leotards not only bend and twist themselves into pretzels right before your very eyes, they also balance a mean tea set (or twenty), and can even stack two netball teams on one bicycle. Even the tiniest kids will be agog. Our family’s favorite spot is the Tiandi Theater where youth talent from the acrobatic school next door put on a spectacular show daily. Chaoyang Theaterand Tianqiao Acrobatics Theater also have daily shows that are worth a peek.

For a less dramatic but still engaging experience, give Beijing’s illustrious puppetry a go. The
China Puppet Theater has shows every weekend, and allows kids to run amok in their onsite playground once the show’s over. Currently showing is the amazing Monkey King—a Chinese must-see with its jaw-dropping choreography of dance and martial arts. Starting July 19, Beijing’s own Mr. Magic will be performing Three Baby Pigs during his bilingual, interactive puppet show—sure to be a treat for tots. And, for something a little more traditional, Dragon in the Sky Shadow Puppet Cultural Club provides a unique opportunity to see this stunning 2,000-year-old form of storytelling.

Finally, older kids will be spellbound by daily performances of The Legend of Kung Fu, which, if you ask me, is mandatory viewing for everyone. Meanwhile, my family and I will be sitting front and center at The Legend of Magic , currently showing at Tiandi Theater . Performed by the China Acrobatic Circus, its captivating tricks include Sword through the Neck and The Bed of Death (cool!). See you there, kiddliwinks!

Tania McCartney