If you’re visiting China in December, you might be asking the question: does China celebrate Christmas?
Though Christmas isn’t Chinese and not celebrated here traditionally, in the large cities you will still get plenty of decorated malls, Christmas lights, and a Santa Claus or two.
How China “celebrates” Christmas might shock you though. In this post, we’ll delve into what Christmas is like in China — who celebrates it, where, and what you might expect if you’re traveling the country during the yuletide season.
Does China Celebrate Christmas?
Yes. In that China acknowledges the day but not in the Western sense. Christmas in China is now more a commercial and social event, especially in the cities.
Although it’s not a holiday that’s observed by people in general, you will see decorations and events in malls, restaurants, and venues catering to young and international crowds.
Is Christmas a Public Holiday in China?
Christmas isn’t an official public holiday in mainland China. This means that on December 25th, most schools, businesses, and government offices remain open.
However, in the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau, Christmas is observed as a public holiday. So, while the mainland can go about its business, the Christmas spirit is alive and kicking in these areas.
Who Celebrates Christmas in China?
When it comes to Christmas celebrations in China, it’s the young people who celebrate. In the major cities, you’ll see groups of friends out together taking in the Christmas lights and decorations.
They see it as a cool thing to do, not a religious holiday. It’s the atmosphere — the music, the hanging out, the city lights.
Expat communities throughout China celebrate during the holiday as well. These communities organize and celebrate in the Western way, adding an extra layer of multiculturalism to the party.
For example, you might stumble upon a Christmas market or attend a holiday party when walking through an expat-heavy neighborhood. But what I found most interesting was when Christmas in China was twisted into something romantic.
For a lot of people, that time of year was simply an excuse for a nice date night. Rather than being about families, it was all about exchanging gifts, having a romantic dinner. Like Valentine’s Day.
It was just another unusual way in which Christmas was celebrated in China.
What Does Christmas Look Like in China?
Christmas in China is a feast for the eyes and ears. In big cities, you can’t miss the shopping malls and eateries decked out in their holiday best. Christmas trees, twinkling lights, and Santa Claus are ubiquitous!
You’ll also hear plenty of Christmas carols everywhere, sometimes alongside upbeat Chinese pop music.
While the Chinese do not typically give presents to each other during Christmastime, “gift-giving” between friends or at promotional events is on the rise. You might also witness a fun tradition of handing out “ peace apples” on Christmas Eve.
The tradition is for wordplay, as “peaceful night” has a similar pronunciation to “apple” in Chinese. It’s a unique way to inject a local tradition into a foreign one.
Where to Experience Christmas in China
1. Shanghai
Looking for the best places to celebrate Christmas in China? Look no further than Shanghai main! This city is truly an international city and during the holiday season its malls and expat community host all sorts of Christmas events and activities.
Attend a Christmas-themed party here and you’ll quickly understand why it has become not only the best city in China for Christmas but one of the best cities in the region for the holiday fluffy!
2. Beijing
Another city I recommend checking out is Beijing, especially in the Sanlitun area (where the big hotels have lavish Christmas celebrations).
There’s loads of holiday spirit in the many expat neighborhoods. It’s an out-of-this-world mix of traditional Christmas in a modern, urban Chinese city!
3. Guangzhou and Shenzhen
Closer to the Pearl River delta, Guangzhou and Shenzhen also do a good job of celebrating Christmas. Shopping streets all sparkle with twinkling lights and Christmas carols fill the air. They do a great job of blending modern and merry!
4. Hong Kong
In Hong Kong, Christmas activity is a public holiday, and the city is decked out in lights, displays, and host to festive shopping.
Locals and visitors alike participate in Christmas markets, themed events, and countdown parties, especially in spots like Central, Tsim Sha Tsui,and Disneyland.
Religious Celebrations and Churches
Christmas is a significant holiday to Chinese Christians, even though Christians only account for around 5-6% of the population in China.
They celebrate the holiday with lots of religious fervor and tradition, and in the bigger cities you’ll be able to find churches that have services on Christmas Eve and/or Day.
If you’re curious and would like to attend a service, you can—you’ll just need to make sure to confirm the language and service times first. A lot are absolutely stunning, filled with candles, carols, and community. They are a great way to experience another side of Christmas in China.
How Do Locals Feel About Christmas?
Most locals view Christmas as a fun, fashionable event rather than a religious holiday. It’s not something that’s been part of overarching Chinese culture, so there’s no deep-seated emotional or cultural ties to it — especially outside of the Christian faith.
At the same time, awareness and acceptance of Christmas are growing (though mostly in cities) with help from globalization, social media, and advertising.
Most schools and organizations tend to minimize festivities surrounding Christmas in order to promote local culture and traditions, but generally, people are more curious and take part without resistance.
FAQ
1. Is Christmas celebrated in rural areas of China?
No, small towns and rural areas of China don’t really celebrate Christmas. It’s really only common in major cities with a larger international presence.
2. Is Christmas a popular time for family gatherings in China?
Family reunion is not a Chinese Christmas tradition like in the West; it is considered more of a romantic or social holiday for young people.
3. Are Christmas trees common in Chinese homes?
No, Chinese households do not typically have Christmas trees unless the family is Christian or heavily influenced bythe Western world.
Conclusion
Christmas is not a typical Chinese festival but Christmas celebrations have become popular in big cities in recent years.
Christmas in the West it is not, but if you are traveling in China during December, you can at least catch the lights and music and maybe even a few surprises with a China flair.
It’s a different Christmas, but definitely one I recommend experiencing.