Beijing Strawberry Festival

About

The Beijing Strawberry Festival transforms Daxing and Changping Districts into a delightful springtime paradise where families can pick fresh strawberries directly from the vines. This beloved annual event combines agricultural education with hands-on fun, allowing children to experience farm life while enjoying one of nature's sweetest treats. It's a refreshing escape from Beijing's urban bustle and a wonderful way to teach kids about where their food comes from.

What to Expect

Families will explore expansive greenhouse farms where rows of ripe strawberries await picking. The festival atmosphere is relaxed and educational, with farmers often explaining growing techniques to curious visitors. Beyond strawberry picking, many farms offer additional activities like hayrides, small petting zoos, playgrounds, and photo opportunities in scenic farm settings. The greenhouses are climate-controlled, making the experience comfortable regardless of spring weather. You'll find families of all backgrounds, including many expat families, creating a welcoming international atmosphere.

Highlights for Kids

• Picking and eating fresh, sweet strawberries straight from the plant
• Learning how strawberries grow in modern greenhouse facilities
• Meeting farm animals at participating farms with petting zoo areas
• Taking adorable photos among the strawberry rows and farm scenery
• Bringing home baskets of fresh fruit as a delicious souvenir

Pro Tips for Families

1. Download a translation app or have your hotel write the farm address in Chinese characters, as many farm staff speak limited English and taxi drivers will need Chinese directions
2. Wear clothes that can get dirty and bring wet wipes—strawberry juice stains and little hands will get muddy in the greenhouses
3. Visit on weekdays if possible to avoid the massive crowds of local families that descend on weekends, making picking areas very congested
4. Bring your own containers or bags as some farms charge extra for baskets, and the strawberries you pick are sold by weight at checkout

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings between 9-11 AM offer the best experience with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Mid-April typically provides the peak strawberry season with the most abundant and flavorful fruit. Avoid weekends and Chinese public holidays when farms become extremely crowded. If you must visit on weekends, arrive right when farms open (usually 8 AM) to beat the rush.

Food & Drinks

Most farms have basic facilities selling simple snacks, bottled water, and sometimes strawberry-themed treats like strawberry ice cream or juice. Food options are generally limited and very basic, so consider eating a substantial meal before arriving. Some larger farms have small restaurants serving Chinese farmhouse cuisine. Bring your own water and snacks for picky eaters, as Western-style food is rarely available. The main attraction is, of course, sampling strawberries while you pick—most farms allow reasonable tasting.

Parking & Access

Most farms are located in rural areas requiring private transportation—taxi, DiDi (Chinese Uber), or hired car with driver are best options for international visitors, as public transportation is limited. Many farms have parking lots, but these fill quickly on weekends. The farms themselves are generally stroller-accessible on main paths, though greenhouse rows may be narrow. Confirm your driver will wait or arrange a pickup time, as getting return transportation from remote farms can be challenging. Some travel agencies offer organized tours from central Beijing that include transportation.