holidays in China

Holidays in China

Chinese public holidays follow both the lunar and solar calendars, making their dates variable from year to year.

Traditional Chinese festivals like Spring Festival (Chinese New Year), Qingming Festival, Dragon Boat Festival, and Mid-Autumn Festival are based on the lunar calendar, so their dates change annually on the Western calendar.

Some holidays have fixed dates, such as New Year's Day (January 1), Labor Day (May 1), and National Day (October 1).

Travel Tips During Chinese Holidays

Transportation and Accommodation:

  • Book your travel arrangements well in advance during holiday periods
  • Train tickets, flights, and hotels are often in high demand
  • China Railway normally opens train sales 15 days before departure; during peak periods, book as soon as your train is released
  • Plan carefully if you're traveling during holiday seasons

Tourist Attractions:

  • Popular tourist sites can be extremely crowded during holidays
  • Some attractions may limit visitor numbers
  • Expect longer waiting times and larger crowds

Spring Festival (Chinese New Year) Special Considerations:

  • Many Chinese people return home during this period
  • Independent shops and restaurants may close or shorten their hours, especially in the first few days
  • Major-city chain stores and some food-delivery services usually continue operating, but availability varies
  • Confirm opening hours and plan meals and transport in advance

Official China Public Holiday 2026 schedule

The dates below follow the 2026 holiday schedule published by the State Council. Adjusted working weekends are listed because they can affect offices, schools, and local commuting patterns.

  • New Year's Day

    • January 1–3, 2026
    • Adjusted working day: January 4

  • Spring Festival (Chinese New Year)

    • February 15–23, 2026
    • Adjusted working days: February 14 and February 28

  • Qingming Festival

    • April 4–6, 2026

  • Labor Day

    • May 1–5, 2026
    • Adjusted working day: May 9

  • Dragon Boat Festival

    • June 19–21, 2026

  • Mid-Autumn Festival

    • September 25–27, 2026

  • National Day

    • October 1–7, 2026
    • Adjusted working days: September 20 and October 10