Many Chinese cities saw the warmest New Year holiday in six decades this year. In Beijing, the dry and rainless weather has lasted an unusually long time. As of Jan 28, China's capital saw nearly 100 days pass without rain, according to official statistics. The city's latest rainfall was on Oct 22 - and it was a light rain at that, with only 2.5 mm of precipitation. The irregular weather has not stopped people from stepping out to have fun this winter. Ski resorts in suburban Beijing are available for anyone who simply must have snow. The lakes in the downtown Shichahai scenic area are crowded with winter swimming enthusiasts. At Olympic Park, parents and children frequently can be observed flying kites. Or, closer to home, you can simply dress up your pet and go for a walk.

Ma Ruilin, 7, plays at Olympic Park near the North Fourth Ring Road in Beijing. Photos by Zou Hong / China Daily