Public Holidays in China 2026 – National, Lunar & Traditional Festivals
China celebrates a blend of public holidays that reflect its long history, cultural traditions, and national achievements. The holiday calendar combines official state holidays with traditional Chinese festivals based on the lunar calendar, creating a rich tapestry of celebrations observed across the nation. Long holiday breaks often see millions of people traveling, exploring destinations listed in places to visit in China or planning extended stays at the best hotels in China.
Overview of Public Holidays in China
China’s public holidays include national holidays such as National Day and Labour Day, as well as traditional festivals like the Lunar New Year and Mid-Autumn Festival. Many of these holidays span several consecutive days, creating extended breaks known as “Golden Weeks,” during which family reunions and domestic tourism peak nationwide.
List of Public Holidays in China (2026)
| Holiday | Date (2026) | Day(s) | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Thursday | Marks the start of the Gregorian calendar year. |
| Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) | February 17 – February 23* | Tuesday – Monday* | China’s most important festival, marking the Lunar New Year with family reunions and celebrations. |
| Qingming Festival (Tomb-Sweeping Day) | April 4 – 6 | Saturday – Monday | Honors ancestors and includes tomb-cleaning rituals. |
| Labour Day | May 1 – 5* | Friday – Tuesday* | Celebrates workers and labor achievements; one of China’s Golden Weeks. |
| Dragon Boat Festival | June 19 – 21* | Friday – Sunday* | Commemorates poet Qu Yuan with dragon boat races and rice dumplings. |
| Mid-Autumn Festival | September 25 – 27* | Friday – Sunday* | Celebrates family unity and the harvest moon. |
| National Day | October 1 – 7 | Thursday – Wednesday | Commemorates the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949; the second Golden Week. |
* Dates for lunar-based holidays are approximate and subject to official announcements by Chinese authorities.
List of Public Holidays in China (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Celebrates the start of the Gregorian calendar year. |
| Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) | January 29 – February 4 | Wednesday – Tuesday | The most important festival in China, marking the Lunar New Year. |
| Qingming Festival (Tomb-Sweeping Day) | April 4 – 6 | Friday – Sunday | Day to honor ancestors and clean family tombs. |
| Labour Day | May 1 – 5 | Thursday – Monday | Golden Week celebrating workers and labor achievements. |
| Dragon Boat Festival | May 31 – June 2 | Saturday – Monday | Commemorates poet Qu Yuan. |
| Mid-Autumn Festival | October 6 – 8 | Monday – Wednesday | Celebrates family unity and the harvest moon. |
| National Day | October 1 – 7 | Wednesday – Tuesday | Marks the founding of the People’s Republic of China. |
Traditional Chinese Festivals
In addition to official public holidays, China observes several traditional festivals rooted in ancient customs:
- Lantern Festival – Celebrates the end of Lunar New Year festivities with lantern displays and rice balls.
- Double Seventh Festival (Qixi) – Known as Chinese Valentine’s Day, celebrating love and devotion.
- Double Ninth Festival (Chongyang) – Honors elders and ancestors through cultural activities.
Public Observances and Closures
During major holidays such as Chinese New Year and National Day Golden Week, government offices, banks, and factories close for up to seven days. Transport systems operate at maximum capacity, while tourist destinations experience peak crowds. Shopping centers and restaurants often remain open, offering festive promotions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does China have in 2026?
China officially observes seven major public holidays in 2026, with extended breaks resulting in approximately 11–13 days of official leave.
What is the most important holiday in China?
Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) is the most significant holiday, centered on family reunions and traditional celebrations.
What is a “Golden Week” in China?
Golden Week refers to extended national holiday periods during Chinese New Year and National Day, when travel and tourism peak.
Which traditional festivals are celebrated in China?
Major traditional festivals include the Dragon Boat Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, and Qingming Festival.
Conclusion
Public holidays in China blend ancient traditions with modern national identity. From the Spring Festival to National Day, these celebrations promote family unity, cultural pride, and nationwide festivity.
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