Christmas in China is quite different from how it’s celebrated in Western countries. While it’s not an official public holiday, it has grown in popularity, especially in major cities. The holiday is more of a commercial and social event rather than a religious celebration, with a unique blend of Western influences and Chinese traditions.
In this article, we’ll explore how Christmas is celebrated in China, its traditions, decorations, food, and travel experiences during the holiday season.
Is Christmas Celebrated in China?
Unlike Western countries where Christmas is a major religious and cultural holiday, China does not officially recognize Christmas. However, due to globalization, Christmas has become a trendy festival in urban areas like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.
Who Celebrates Christmas in China?
- Expats and foreigners – Many Westerners living in China celebrate Christmas with family and friends.
- Young Chinese people – Christmas is popular among young people as a time for gift-giving, shopping, and romantic dates.
- Christian communities – Though a minority, some Chinese Christians celebrate Christmas with religious services.
Where is Christmas Popular in China?
- Big cities – Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong have large Christmas celebrations.
- Malls and shopping districts – Decorations, Christmas sales, and festive promotions are widespread.
- Theme parks and hotels – Disneyland Shanghai and international hotels host Christmas-themed events.
Christmas Decorations & Symbols in China
China embraces the visual and commercial aspects of Christmas, with streets, malls, and hotels decorated beautifully.
Common Christmas Decorations in China
- Christmas Trees – Artificial trees, often decorated in shopping centers and hotels.
- Santa Claus (Shèngdàn Lǎorén, 圣诞老人) – A popular figure, often seen in malls giving out gifts.
- Lights & Ornaments – Stores and public places are decorated with fairy lights and festive ornaments.
- Gifts & Stockings – Some people exchange small gifts, though it’s not as common as in the West.
A Unique Chinese Christmas Tradition: The “Peace Apple” (平安果, Píng’ān Guǒ)
In China, people give each other apples wrapped in festive packaging on Christmas Eve. This tradition comes from the similarity between the words:
- Christmas Eve (平安夜, Píng’ān Yè) means “Silent Night” or “Peaceful Night.”
- Apple (苹果, Píngguǒ) sounds similar to “peace” (平安, Píng’ān) in Chinese.
People buy beautifully packaged apples and give them to friends and loved ones as a symbol of peace and good luck.
Christmas Food & Dining in China
Christmas in China is more about eating out and enjoying festive meals rather than home-cooked family dinners.
Popular Foods During Christmas in China
- Western-style dinners – Restaurants and hotels serve special Christmas buffets with turkey, steak, and desserts.
- Chinese Christmas meals – Families may go out for hot pot, seafood, or dim sum on Christmas Eve.
- Christmas cakes – Bakeries sell decorated cakes featuring Santa, snowmen, and reindeer.
Since Christmas is not a traditional Chinese holiday, there are no specific Christmas dishes like in Western countries. Instead, many people enjoy festive meals in restaurants, especially at Western-style restaurants and hotels.
Christmas Shopping & Sales in China
One of the biggest aspects of Christmas in China is shopping.
- Christmas sales – Malls and online stores like Taobao, JD.com, and Tmall offer discounts.
- Luxury brand promotions – Many people use Christmas as an excuse to buy high-end gifts.
- Holiday markets – Some cities host European-style Christmas markets with handmade gifts and treats.
For many young Chinese, Christmas is similar to Valentine’s Day, with couples exchanging small gifts, chocolates, and flowers.
Religious Christmas Celebrations in China
Since China is not a Christian-majority country, religious Christmas celebrations are not widespread. However, there are Christian communities that celebrate Christmas with:
- Midnight Mass services in churches.
- Christmas carol singing in some public areas.
- Special gatherings among Christian families.
Many churches in China are state-controlled, meaning they must follow government regulations on religious gatherings. In some areas, Christmas celebrations are more restricted than in others.
Traveling to China During Christmas
If you’re visiting China during Christmas, here’s what to expect:
- Winter weather – Northern cities like Beijing and Harbin can be very cold, while southern cities like Guangzhou and Hong Kong are mild.
- Less crowded attractions – Since Christmas is not a public holiday, most places are open with fewer crowds.
- Special events – Some hotels, restaurants, and theme parks host Christmas-themed events.
Best Places to Visit for Christmas in China
- Shanghai Disneyland & Universal Studios Beijing – Christmas parades and festive decorations.
- Hong Kong – Christmas lights, markets, and holiday sales.
- Harbin Ice Festival – A winter wonderland with ice sculptures and snow activities.
Conclusion
- If you love festive decorations, shopping, and unique traditions like the “Peace Apple,” Christmas in China can be an exciting experience.
- However, if you’re looking for a traditional Christmas with family gatherings and religious celebrations, it’s not as widely observed.
Would you like more recommendations on the best places to celebrate Christmas in China?
FAQs
1. Do people in China celebrate Christmas?
Yes, but mostly in a commercial and social way. While it’s not a public holiday, cities have Christmas decorations, shopping sales, and festive events.
2. Is Christmas a public holiday in China?
No, Christmas is not an official holiday in China, and schools and businesses remain open. However, Hong Kong and Macau observe Christmas as a public holiday.
3. What is the most popular Christmas tradition in China?
The most unique tradition is the “Peace Apple” (平安果, Píng’ān Guǒ), where people gift beautifully wrapped apples as a symbol of peace and good luck.
4. What do people eat during Christmas in China?
There’s no traditional Christmas meal, but many enjoy Western-style buffets, hot pot, or seafood feasts at restaurants.
5. Where can I see the best Christmas decorations in China?
Major cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong have beautiful Christmas lights, trees, and festive displays in shopping malls and hotels.
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