The sixth edition of French House concluded in Beijing after a three-day celebration of French cuisine, wine and lifestyle, offering a vibrant platform for cultural exchange between China and France.
Held from June 26 to 28 at Beijing DT51, the event was themed "Douce France". Organized by the French Ministry of Agriculture with official support from the French embassy in China, it celebrated the diversity and easygoing spirit of French living through food, art, music and interactive experiences.
French Ambassador to China Bertrand Lortholary attended the opening ceremony, highlighting the role of culinary exchanges in strengthening people-to-people ties between the two countries.
Chinese actress Xu Lu, a special guest representing China-France friendship, was named a "French House Ambassador for Sino-French Cuisine" during the event. The opening ceremony also gathered representatives from the French embassy, agricultural organizations, businesses and cultural institutions from both countries.
Inspired by France's coastal towns, rural landscapes and vibrant urban neighborhoods, this year's French House recreated a summer atmosphere filled with French charm. A Cannes-inspired street balcony became a favorite photo spot, while themed spaces including a seaside stage, a countryside pavilion and a forest lounge invited visitors to experience different facets of French life.
The three-day French market attracted more than 20,000 visitors, with more than 50 French brands presenting products ranging from food and wine to kitchenware and lifestyle goods. Interactive activities, including a "Douce France Treasure Hunt Map", food challenges, lucky draws and live performances, offered visitors a fun way to explore French culture.
A series of workshops introduced visitors to French culinary traditions. The "Sunny Table" workshop, hosted by Blue Whale, Bel Group's Kiri and BHG Bakery, invited participants to prepare open-faced sandwiches with French apples, cream cheese and bread, highlighting the relaxed rhythm of French dining.
Wine workshops showcased the diversity of French wine regions. The "Alsace Rocks" session introduced wines from Alsace, while Vintage Bordeaux Wine University guided participants through Bordeaux wine culture with tastings and food pairings. The "French Appro" workshop recreated the French pre-dinner tradition with oysters, cheese, cured meats, juices and sparkling water.
The "Douce France" campaign will continue at selected BHG Market Place stores in Beijing until July 14, featuring French food products and weekend tasting events
