As the 2026 Lunar New Year approaches, Beijing's National Agricultural Exhibition Center has transformed into a vibrant hub of festivity with the opening of the 30th Old Beijing New Year Goods Fair. Running through February 14, this cultural institution offers both residents and visitors a sensory journey through China's regional traditions while embracing global influences.
More than 300 vendors from across the Chinese mainland showcase time-honored specialties, including Hunan smoked meats, Sichuan preserved vegetables, and Inner Mongolian dairy products. The fair's layout mirrors China's culinary map, with dedicated zones for Anhui teas, Guangdong pastries, and Tianjin street food classics. 'This is where generations come to taste their childhood memories,' explained vendor Li Wei while offering free samples of Yunnan ham.
A growing international section reflects Beijing's global connections, featuring Russian confectionery, Moldovan wines, and New Zealand meat products. The cross-cultural exchange extends to payment systems, with multiple booths accepting digital yuan alongside conventional payment methods.
With Spring Festival travel restrictions easing compared to previous years, organizers report a 15% increase in first-day attendance. The fair serves as both a practical shopping destination and a cultural experience, offering cooking demonstrations and traditional folk art displays alongside the bustling marketplace.
