The Dalian International Beer Festival Part 1

Every year Dalian hosts an International Beer festival in Xinghai Square. It was great timing for us to arrive just a few weeks before it began. Sarah and I went over the second night to check it out. The festival lasts for two weeks and is a maze of beer tents with non-stop entertainment and more food than you could ever imagine. This is the entrance from our side of the square.

As you can see, meat on a stick, is a popular favorite. The food is mostly what is referred to as xiǎochī - literally "little eats" or snack/street food. Mostly, it is quite delicious but can also border on the bizarre.  As you can see, the festival is as much about food as it is beer. 

Seems like everyone wanted to shake my hand or otherwise be my friend. These friendly people were bent on offering me food and drink and many photo ops. The Chinese genuinely like Americans and are so friendly towards us. Also, as you will see in future posts, Chinese seem to really enjoy having their picture taken with foreigners. This night was no exception.