The Chinese New Year, or Spring Festival, is the most significant holiday in China, celebrated with vibrant traditions and rich cultural heritage. This guide delves into the history, customs, and festivities that define this joyous occasion. Understanding these elements offers a glimpse into the values and beliefs that shape Chinese society.

Readers can expect to explore various aspects of the holiday, including traditional foods, family reunions, and the symbolism behind popular customs. We will also discuss the significance of the zodiac animals and how they influence celebrations each year.

Additionally, this guide will provide practical tips for experiencing the holiday, whether in China or within local communities worldwide. From festive decorations to unique rituals, you will gain insights that enhance your appreciation of this remarkable celebration.

China Holidays: 2025/2026 Public Holidays & Festivals in China

China is a country rich in culture and tradition, and its public holidays reflect this diversity. In 2025 and 2026, China will observe several public holidays, including the widely celebrated Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival. This guide provides an in-depth look at the public holidays in China, their significance, and how they are celebrated.

Overview of Public Holidays in China

China has seven legal public holidays each year: New Year’s Day, Chinese New Year, Qingming Festival, May Day, Dragon Boat Festival, Mid-Autumn Day, and National Day. These holidays allow Chinese citizens to take time off work, spend time with family, and participate in various cultural activities. In total, Chinese people enjoy 13 days off for these official holidays.

Public Holiday Calendar for 2025 and 2026

The following table outlines the public holidays in China for 2025 and 2026, including the dates and duration of each holiday.

Holiday Name	2025 Date	2025 Holiday Duration	2026 Date	2026 Holiday Duration
New Year’s Day	Jan. 1	1 day	Jan. 1	3 days
Chinese New Year	Jan. 29	Jan. 28 – Feb. 4	Feb. 17	Feb. 16 – 23
Qingming Festival	Apr. 4	Apr. 4 – 6	Apr. 5	Apr. 3 – 5
May Day	May 1	May 1 – 5	May 1	May 1 – 5
Dragon Boat Festival	May 31	May 31 – Jun. 2	Jun. 19	Jun. 19 – 21
Mid-Autumn Day	Oct. 6	Oct. 1 – 8	Sep. 25	Sep. 25 – 27
National Day	Oct. 1	Oct. 1 – 7	Oct. 1	Oct. 1 – 7

Technical Features of Public Holidays

Understanding the technical aspects of public holidays in China can help travelers and residents alike plan their activities. Below is a comparison of the key features of the major public holidays.

Feature	New Year’s Day	Chinese New Year	Qingming Festival	May Day	Dragon Boat Festival	Mid-Autumn Day	National Day
Date	Jan. 1	Varies (Jan/Feb)	Apr. 4 or 5	May 1	Varies (May/Jun)	Varies (Sep)	Oct. 1
Duration	1 day	8 days	3 days	5 days	3 days	3 days	7 days
Cultural Significance	New Year	Family Reunion	Ancestor Worship	Labor Celebration	Commemorate Qu Yuan	Family Reunion	National Unity
Common Activities	Family Gatherings	Fireworks, Feasts	Tomb-Sweeping	Travel, Leisure	Dragon Boat Racing	Moon Gazing	Parades, Fireworks

Types of Holidays in China

China’s public holidays can be categorized into different types based on their significance and the way they are celebrated. The following table summarizes these types.

Type	Description
National Holidays	Holidays that celebrate significant events in Chinese history and culture.
Traditional Festivals	Holidays rooted in ancient customs and practices, such as the Spring Festival.
Legal Holidays	Official holidays recognized by the government, allowing time off work.
Cultural Celebrations	Events that highlight local traditions and customs, often with regional variations.

Celebrating Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year, or Spring Festival, is the most significant holiday in China. It marks the beginning of the lunar calendar and is celebrated with various customs and traditions. Families gather for reunion dinners, exchange red envelopes, and set off fireworks to ward off evil spirits. The festival lasts for 15 days, culminating in the Lantern Festival.

Other Notable Festivals

In addition to the major public holidays, several other festivals are celebrated in China, including:
– Qingming Festival: A time for families to honor their ancestors by visiting their graves and making offerings.
– Dragon Boat Festival: Celebrated with dragon boat races and eating zongzi (sticky rice dumplings).
– Mid-Autumn Festival: A celebration of the harvest, where families gather to admire the full moon and eat mooncakes.

Conclusion

China’s public holidays are a reflection of its rich cultural heritage and traditions. From the grand celebrations of Chinese New Year to the solemn observances of Qingming Festival, each holiday offers a unique glimpse into the values and customs of Chinese society. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, understanding these holidays can enhance your experience in China.

FAQs

1. What are the main public holidays in China?
The main public holidays in China include New Year’s Day, Chinese New Year, Qingming Festival, May Day, Dragon Boat Festival, Mid-Autumn Day, and National Day.

2. How long is the Chinese New Year holiday?
The Chinese New Year holiday typically lasts for eight days, from the Lunar New Year’s Eve to the sixth day of the first lunar month.

3. Are businesses open during public holidays in China?
Many businesses, especially in the retail and entertainment sectors, remain open during public holidays, although government offices and schools are usually closed.

4. What is the significance of the Dragon Boat Festival?
The Dragon Boat Festival commemorates the ancient poet Qu Yuan and is celebrated with dragon boat races and the consumption of zongzi.

5. How do people celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival?
During the Mid-Autumn Festival, families gather to appreciate the full moon, share mooncakes, and enjoy various cultural activities.