Out and about

Hong Kong

Lunar New Year flower markets

It's the start of a busy month as locals obsess over settling debts, and getting haircuts and their houses in order ahead of the Lunar New Year. Search for your auspicious blossoms and greenery for home or office or just come to soak up the crowds, floral airs and aromas at 15 flower markets springing up on both sides of the harbor.

Noon-midnight, Jan 25-31; Midnight-6 am, Jan 31. Various locations including Victoria Park, Hong Kong Island and Mong Kok. Fehd.gov.hk.

Dub (Horse Racing) Step

Hong Kong's Wednesday Happy Valley Race days are getting a digital update with DJ Ricky Stone electrifying the usual humpday beer garden/horse betting festivities with live sets in between the ground-pounding action. The racetrack, one of Hong Kong's oldest institutions, is also hosting a rap battle for aspiring lyricists with HK$1,000 up for grabs for whoever battles their way to champion.

7:15 pm, Jan 22. HK$10. The Hong Kong Jockey Club Racetrack, Happy Valley. Hkjc.com.

- Timo Chui

Beijing

Australian network

The Australia China Alumni Association invites alumni from all Australian universities who are living in China to come together for monthly networking and professional development seminars. There are opportunities for volunteering, too. Austchinaalumni.org.

Secondhand charity

If you've started New Year spring cleaning, gently used clothing, furniture and books are always welcome at Roundabout, a nonprofit group that sells secondhand items to benefit several local charities.

9 am-6 pm, Jan 20-25. Yuyang Xilu (West Road), Houshayu Town (adjacent to Yosemite Villas) in Shunyi district. Roundaboutchina.com. 137-1877-7761.

Fearless mahjong

Tempted to join the fun as you pass locals playing this traditional Chinese board game? Make a Lunar New Year's resolution to learn mahjong at these friendly afternoon workshops.

1 pm, Mondays. China Culture Center, Inside the Maple Drive-in Cinema Park, 21 Liangmaqiao Lu (Road), Chaoyang district. 010-8420-0171. Chinaculturecenter.org.

Happy feet

The Beijing Ballroom Dance Club steps lively every Saturday with dance-centered parties and events. Private and group instruction are available in ballroom, swing and Latin dance. Contact beijingballroom@yahoo.com for details on classes and the next party.

7:30-11:30 pm, Saturdays. Sino-Chu Wine Bar, 18 Liangmahe Nanlu (South Road). 010-8532-2418.

- Mike Peters