List of 7 public holidays in China for 2026, including New Year's Day, Spring Festival, Qingming Festival and more.
China's holiday culture is a mesmerizing tapestry of ancient lunar traditions and modern national celebrations, centered deeply on family reunions and communal feasting. From the explosive fireworks of the Spring Festival to the contemplative moon-gazing of the Mid-Autumn Festival, holidays are vibrant, high-energy events that showcase the nation's rich heritage.
Travel during 'Golden Weeks'—specifically the Lunar New Year and the National Day week in October—triggers the 'Chunyun' phenomenon, the world's largest annual human migration. Travelers should expect sold-out trains, surging flight prices, and massive crowds at major attractions. While large malls stay open, many small businesses and government offices close for at least seven consecutive days.
Avoid scheduling critical meetings or deadlines two weeks before or after the Lunar New Year as productivity significantly slows. It is customary to exchange digital red envelopes (hongbao) via WeChat or send corporate gift sets like tea or fruit to partners before the break begins to maintain 'guanxi' or relationship harmony.
To experience the culture without the logistical chaos, visit during the shoulder seasons of late spring (April and May) or early autumn (September). To avoid extreme travel congestion, strictly avoid the first week of October and the shifting 15-day period of the Lunar New Year, typically occurring between late January and mid-February.
'Xinnián kuàilè' (Happy New Year) and 'Gōngxǐ fācái' (Wishing you prosperity) are essential during Spring Festival, while 'Zhōngqiū jié kuàilè' is used for the Mid-Autumn Festival.