The opening of the Chinese economy in recent years gave way to the influence of their culture through western traditions, ideas and trends. Christmas steadily gained popularity in China, particularly in major cities like Beijing and Guangzhou. Western culture’s influence resulted in a more accepting outlook on Christmas, with decorations, gifts, and even Santa Claus sightings becoming more frequent. However, Chinese people celebrate the holiday more as a fun and festive occasion rather than concentrating on its religious aspects. Christmas in China is celebrated in the following ways:
- Attending a local church service
Christians in China, who make up just a small percentage of the population, celebrate Christmas by attending special church services. Christians often exchange gifts and enjoy dinner with their friends and family, featuring unique dishes and drinks. On the eve of Christmas, there are carol performances with congregants performing dances and drama. An expat teaching in Beijing will enjoy this wonderful experience with their friends and cherish this wonderful celebration moment.
- Attending festivals
Christmas markets and festivals are held in many Chinese cities where people can participate in holiday-themed activities, enjoy the festive mood, and listen to Christmas music. These gatherings offer an excellent chance for folks to get together, enjoy and celebrate the holiday season with their loved ones. Another heartfelt approach to spending the holiday is giving to charity and providing aid to those in need.
- Spending time with loved ones and friends
Most young people in China spend the Christmas holiday with their significant other showering them with gifts and confessions as they view Christmas as valentines. Other activities include shopping in malls, visiting amusement parks and skiing. Overall, Christmas celebrations in China revolve around spending time with family and friends, which is a beautiful way to celebrate the holiday season.
- Christmas Decorations
Decorations are typical in China and are among the most popular traditions for celebrating Christmas. Hanging paper lanterns indoors and outdoors strung around the Christmas tree (tree of light) and adding festive colors is a popular holiday decorating trend. Homes are often decorated with red paper cutouts which feature auspicious sayings or symbols, representing wishes for good luck and prosperity in the coming year. Santa playing the saxophone is a popular decor in China that symbolizes joy and happiness and reminds of the festive season.
- Giving of gifts
Gifting is a popular tradition during Chinese Christmas. Many people exchange gifts such as toys, snacks, and clothing. Gift wrapping is often done in red and gold paper, which is thought to bring good luck. People may also give money in red envelopes with lucky money, a popular way to give cash during the holiday. It is believed that young people would have luck in the New Year if they get lucky money from the older generation. Gift baskets filled with food and other supplies are always cherished by hosts and hostesses when guests are visiting during the holidays.
- Traditional feast
Foreign teachers working in Beijing and other expats can enjoy Christmas in China by visiting hotels and restaurants that prepare traditional western-style foods or Chinese dishes. They may also prepare traditional meals at home to share with family and friends. Dishes such as roast turkey and roasted chestnuts are typical for the Christmas festivities.
- Attending the Beijing “Santacon”
Christmas in China is likely to blend many cultures, including expats in Guangzhou and teachers in Beijing. There are numerous jobs in Guangzhou for expats looking for teaching opportunities and want to have an enriching experience while living in China. Santacon is one such opportunity that aims at uniting all the people and providing them with a chance to engage with one another while sharing their experiences and ideas on the various opportunities available in China. Other exciting activities during this event include singing songs, giving gifts, and socializing with strangers.
Celebrating Christmas in China is a fascinating experience, with the traditional Chinese culture providing you with a unique experience. The blend of Chinese and western customs brings a spectacular holiday atmosphere. It is the ideal chance to understand the culture and cherish the holiday.
