Visitors were invited to buy unusual Christmas gifts at an Oriental bazaar, at Durham University.
The event, on Saturday, featured belly dancing displays, exhibitions of Arabic culture, and activities for children.
The new Lottery-funded Marvels of China gallery was open, with costumes to try on, and spices from the Far East to smell.
Lindy Brewster, curator of university museums, said: "It's an annual event, which, this year, has allowed people to see our new gallery."
She said there had been plenty of things laid on for children to do, while their parents shopped.
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