Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival, marks the start of the lunar year with family reunions, food and local traditions. This article was originally written for the 2025 Year of the Snake; the cultural guide below remains useful, while event dates and bookings need the calendar for your actual travel year.
When is Chinese New Year 2025?
The original 2025 celebration began on January 29. For comparison, the official 2026 Spring Festival holiday ran February 15–23. These dates are historical as of this October 2026 review; do not use them to book a future New Year trip.[2]
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What to Expect During Chinese New Year in China
1. Festive Decorations
Red lanterns and paper cuttings are familiar Spring Festival decorations. The animal motif changes with the zodiac year: snake-themed decorations belonged to 2025, not every New Year.
2. Traditional Customs
- Family Reunions: The most important part of Chinese New Year is spending time with family. Millions of people travel across China for this occasion, in what’s known as the world’s largest annual human migration.
- Red Envelopes (Hong Bao): Adults give red envelopes filled with money to children and unmarried relatives, symbolizing good luck and prosperity.
- Fireworks and Firecrackers: These have a traditional role in warding off bad luck, but local restrictions and official event schedules vary. Do not assume you may set them off or that a display will take place.
3. Delicious Food
No Chinese New Year celebration is complete without a feast. Some must-try dishes include:
- Dumplings (Jiaozi)
- Spring Rolls
- Niangao (New Year Cake)
- Tangyuan (Sweet Rice Balls)
4. Cultural Performances
Look out for traditional lion and dragon dances in public spaces, as well as temple fairs featuring various folk performances.
Travel Tips for Chinese New Year
- Book Early: Transportation and accommodation get fully booked quickly. Plan your trip at least 3-4 months in advance.
- Embrace the Crowds: Popular tourist sites will be busy. Be prepared and plan accordingly.
- Learn Basic Mandarin: A few phrases can go a long way in enhancing your experience.
- Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of traditions and etiquette to avoid any cultural faux pas.
- Join Local Celebrations: Many cities organize public events for tourists to participate in the festivities.
Top Destinations for Foreign Visitors During Chinese New Year
While celebrations occur throughout China, here are some top destinations with their unique attractions:
1. Beijing
Recommended Activities:
- Watch the flag-raising ceremony at Tiananmen Square on New Year’s Day
- Visit the Temple of Heaven for its architecture and park setting; do not assume that an imperial prayer ceremony is held for visitors.
- Explore the Summer Palace, beautifully decorated for the festival
Must-Try Dish: Beijing-style dumplings filled with minced pork and cabbage
Why Visit: Experience the heart of Chinese culture and history while enjoying modern amenities.
2. Hong Kong
Recommended Activities:
- Attend the Lunar New Year parade in Tsim Sha Tsui
- Visit Victoria Harbour for the spectacular fireworks display
- Explore the flower markets in Victoria Park
Must-Try Dish: Nin gou (New Year pudding) – a sweet, sticky cake
Why Visit: Enjoy a perfect blend of traditional Chinese and Western influences in a vibrant city atmosphere.
3. Xi’an
Recommended Activities:
- Visit the Terracotta Warriors with advance reservations where required; expect holiday demand rather than assuming fewer visitors.
- Attend the Lantern Festival at the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
- Walk along the ancient City Wall, beautifully lit for the festival
Must-Try Dish: Biangbiang noodles, a local specialty
Why Visit: Immerse yourself in ancient Chinese history while experiencing authentic local celebrations.
4. Harbin
Recommended Activities:
- Visit the world-famous Harbin Ice and Snow Festival
- Enjoy winter sports at Yabuli Ski Resort
- Experience local customs at the Volga Manor
Must-Try Dish: Guo bao rou (sweet and sour pork)
Why Visit: Combine unique winter experiences with traditional New Year celebrations.
5. Chengdu
Recommended Activities:
- Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
- Explore the ancient Jinli Street, festively decorated for the New Year
- Relax in a traditional teahouse in People’s Park
Must-Try Dish: Hot pot with a variety of local ingredients
Why Visit: Experience the laid-back Sichuan lifestyle and culinary delights alongside New Year festivities.
A Spring Festival visit can combine festive food, local performances and memorable city walks. Plan around the calendar for your actual year, confirm public events, and leave space for the quieter family side of the holiday.
Remember to respect local customs, embrace the festive spirit, and most importantly, Xin Nian Kuai Le (Happy New Year)!
FAQs of Chinese New Year
1.Q: Is it safe to travel to China during Chinese New Year?
A: Generally, yes. However, be prepared for large crowds and book your accommodations and transportation well in advance. Always follow local guidelines and be aware of your surroundings.
2.Q: Do I need a visa to visit China for Chinese New Year?
A: Entry requirements depend on your passport, itinerary and purpose. Check the current entry guide and the National Immigration Administration or relevant Chinese consulate; neither a festival visit nor an old 144-hour article establishes eligibility.
3.Q: Will restaurants and attractions be open during the Chinese New Year holiday?
A: Many businesses close for the first few days of the holiday, but tourist attractions often remain open. Large cities tend to have more options available throughout the festival period.
4.Q: What gifts are appropriate to bring if I’m invited to a Chinese home during New Year?
A: Fruit baskets, quality tea or alcohol, and well-presented gift sets are generally well-received. Avoid gifting clocks, as they are associated with death in Chinese culture.
5.Q: How can I participate in local New Year traditions as a foreigner?
A: Many cities organize public events where tourists can join in activities like lantern making, calligraphy, or watching performances. You can also visit temples to observe or participate in New Year rituals.
Related with Chinese New Year
Notes & sources
These notes support the specific corrections above. They do not mean that every sentence, future opening time or individual eligibility has been verified.
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Beijing government: 2026 public holidaysSource checked 2026-10-31Remove obsolete event-year framing from evergreen sections, retaining original URL/date.
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Editorial correction; no new factual-verification date claimed.Remove an unverified operational promise or misleading precision; retain the original subject and practical intent.
Editorial correction; no new factual-verification date claimed.Remove an unverified operational promise or misleading precision; retain the original subject and practical intent.
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Editorial correction; no new factual-verification date claimed.Remove obsolete visa majority claim and 144-hour advice; practical entry guide is separately updated.
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- Beijing government: 2026 public holidays
Official 2026 holiday periods, not a live event calendar.
Checked 2026-10-31