The culture of China is best expressed through its colourful and spirited festivals, which embody both culture and festivity. These famous China festivals enthrall a traveller and allow them to witness the very essence of this great country.
Famous Chinese Festivals
It’s safe to say that people in China work hard and play hard. From moon appreciation to dragon boat racing, popular Chinese festivals lead to special reunions and draw people's attention worldwide.
Here are the popular festivals in China:
1. Spring Festival (Chinese New Year)
If you consider the most ceremonious holiday season in China, one particularly stands out: the Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, which marks the appearance of the lunar calendar. Dominated by fireworks, dragon dances, and family get-togethers, it’s a time to emerge in celebrations with houses decorated with red lanterns and couplets.
The people distribute "hongbao", red envelopes containing money. This celebration is about welcoming the new year with happiness, harmony, and traditions lasting a thousand years. Remember to get your travel insurance if you wish to go to China during this big event!
2. Mid-Autumn Festival
Known as the Mooncake Festival, the Mid-Autumn Festival falls on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, typically in September or October. Celebrating the full moon, families gather for dinner under light paper lanterns and enjoy mooncakes.
This day is also considered an opportunity to express gratitude for the year’s harvest, making it one of the most popular Chinese festivals.
3. Dragon Boat Festival
This June event is festive because it depicts the life of one of China’s famous poets, Qu Yuan. During the Dragon Boat Festival celebration, you will see dragon boats racing, with people operating the oars coordinated by drums.
It’s a fun-filled festival, and the participants are offered stuffed glutinous rice called ‘zongzi’. It’s yet another captivating China holiday that you should experience at least once in your life!
4. Qingming Festival (Tomb Sweeping Day)
Every April, members of the families perform the Qingming Festival, which is known as Tomb Sweeping Day. People also go to their forefathers’ tombs and clean the tomb, render food giving, and burn ‘joss’ papers.
This day is also called Ching Ming. The grave sweeping usually accompanies families participating in playful activities such as flying kites and picnicking. It is a good opportunity to gain some fresh air and traverse the picturesque lands found throughout China during this season.
5. Lantern Festival
The last day of the Spring Festival is celebrated on the 15th day of the first month of the lunar calendar and is called the Lantern Festival. There are lanterns all over the streets, and people of all ages come out to celebrate and savour the famous “tangyuan”.
This historic festival is amongst the most colourful in the country’s calendar with its impressive parades, lion dances, and these days drone dances.
- Double Seventh Festival (Chinese Valentine's Day)
This festival, celebrated on the 7th day of the 7th month in the lunar calendar, is China’s version of Valentine’s Day. The Double Seventh Festival is linked to a romantic legend about the Weaver Girl and the Cowherd, a love story symbolising devotion.
Couples exchange gifts and spend time together, making it a sweet occasion for lovers all over China.
7. Winter Solstice Festival
The Winter Solstice Festival (Dongzhi) falls in late December and is one of China's most significant winter celebrations. This day marks the longest night of the year, and families gather to eat traditional foods like dumplings or tangyuan. It’s a time to celebrate the coming of lighter days and hope for a new season.
Conclusion
From vibrant lantern displays to peaceful tomb-sweeping rituals, China’s festivals offer a glimpse into its deeply rooted traditions.
These famous China festivals are perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in local customs, enjoy delicious food, and witness celebrations. Planning a trip? Make sure you’re covered with travel insurance for a stress-free journey.