Beijing FestivalsFestival & HolidaysThere are lots of traditional festivals and holidays in China , and Beijingers observe them all and enjoy them to the fullest. Most are marked by getting together with the family, eating, drinking, and general merry-making just like any-where else. Spring FestivalSpring Festival, or Chinese New Year, is the celebration of the beginning of the lunar year. It usually occurs in late January or early to mid-February. This festival is celebrated by Chinese people every-where in China and overseas. The main thing to do on Spring Festival is get together with loved ones and make (and eat) jiaozi, Chinese dumplings. Red envelopes, called “Ang pau”, containing money are distributed to children and the unmarried youngsters. If you are in Beijing during Spring Festival, it is worth it to spend the holiday with a Chinese friend's family to get a first-hand sight at the way Chinese celebrate this festival. Also during this time, there are many " Temple Fairs ," which feature lots of yummy snacks and interesting, colorful handicrafts. |
Mid-Autumn Festival
Mid-Autumn Festival falls on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month. At this time the moon is full, and the day is also known as the Moon Festival. The round shape of the moon represents reunion, and this day should be spent with your family. The Moon Festival was originally a harvest festival, and on this day people eat round "moon cakes." Different moon cake fillings include pork, eggs, lotus seeds, sugar and red bean paste.
National Day
In addition to traditional festivals, National Day, on October 1, is the most important national festival. During the celebrations, Beijing is elaborately decorated. Streets are lined with flowers and colorful flags and buntings, and red lanterns hanging on the gates of shops and official buildings. The official reception and celebration are held in the Great Hall of the People while various kinds of performances and operas are shown at all theaters. At night, decorative lights are on throughout the city, providing a great evening out for families to enjoy the night scene out on the streets. A grand parade and elaborate fireworks display is held in Tian'an men Square every fifth or tenth year, with a massive parade and show.
New Year's Day
In addition to celebrating the lunar New Year, Chinese people also observe the solar New Year. Offices usually get one or two days off at this time, and Chinese people seize the opportunity to go on short trips or go home to see relatives.
