8 Enjoyable Holidays for ESL Teachers to Attend While Living in China

Introduction

There are plenty of interesting holidays in China. One of the best ways to experience Chinese culture as a foreign teacher is to observe how locals celebrate their country’s most meaningful events.

As one of the oldest and largest countries in the world, holidays in China merit special attention. Whether you’re just beginning your journey teaching English abroad or are an experienced ESL teacher in China, attending these celebrations will deepen your cultural understanding and make your stay more memorable.

The following list describes some of the most enjoyable public holidays for ESL teachers living in China.

Lunar Calendar and Holiday Scheduling

It’s important for Westerners to remember that most traditional Chinese holidays operate on the Chinese Lunar calendar. Though China’s modern workforce largely follows the Gregorian calendar, the timing of traditional festivals depends on the Lunar system.

This means that while holidays appear consistently each year according to the Lunar calendar, their dates shift annually on the Gregorian calendar. ESL teachers in China should pay attention to the calendar changes each year to know when festivals will occur.

Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year is one of the most important and beloved holidays in modern China. It includes a wide range of cultural traditions and is often accompanied by an extended break from work—great news for ESL teachers looking to travel or relax.

Celebrations feature the exchanging of red envelopes (hongbao), large family dinners, dragon and lion dances, fireworks, and state-sponsored television performances. Streets and buildings are decorated in red, symbolizing good fortune and happiness.

When is it: Chinese New Year falls on the second new moon after the winter solstice, typically between January 21 and February 20.

Mid-Autumn Festival

The Mid-Autumn Festival is a reunion holiday where families gather together to appreciate the full moon, light lanterns, and eat mooncakes. The moon is a powerful symbol in Chinese culture, representing togetherness and renewal.

ESL teachers in China may be invited to join colleagues or students for meals during this holiday, or they may simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful lantern displays in parks and public spaces.

When is it: Held on the 15th day of the 8th month of the Lunar calendar, usually falling between mid-September and early October.

Dragon Boat Festival

The Dragon Boat Festival commemorates the legendary poet and statesman Qu Yuan, a patriotic figure during the Warring States Period. The holiday is celebrated by watching dragon boat races and eating sticky rice dumplings called zongzi.

This is one of the most visually striking holidays in China, and while races are often televised, major riverside cities may also host live events ESL teachers can attend in person.

When is it: Celebrated on the 5th day of the 5th month of the Chinese calendar, typically in late May or early June.

Qingming Festival (Tomb-Sweeping Day)

Qingming Festival is a time for honoring ancestors and loved ones who have passed away. Families clean and decorate gravesites and often bring offerings of food or incense.

As this is a deeply personal and family-oriented holiday, ESL teachers working in China may find local friends traveling to their hometowns. It’s a good time to connect with other expats, reflect, or explore quiet cultural sites.

When is it: Occurs on the 15th day after the spring equinox, usually April 4, 5, or 6 on the Gregorian calendar.

National Day

National Day celebrates the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. This holiday kicks off what is known as Golden Week, a major travel period throughout the country. Major cities host parades, fireworks, and public events.

ESL teachers in China should plan ahead for this time, as transportation and tourism spots will be extremely busy. It’s also a fantastic chance to travel, as schools are often closed for the week.

When is it: National Day is celebrated every year on October 1st.

Labor Day

Labor Day honors the contributions of workers and is a national public holiday in China. ESL teachers may receive time off and can use this short holiday to relax or explore local areas.

Unlike many traditional holidays, Labor Day follows the international Gregorian calendar and offers a break across most industries.

When is it: Celebrated on May 1st each year.

Lantern Festival

The Lantern Festival marks the end of Chinese New Year celebrations. It’s known for stunning displays of handmade lanterns and the eating of sweet glutinous rice balls called tangyuan, which symbolize unity and family.

This is one of the most photogenic holidays in China. No matter where you teach—urban or rural—you’ll likely see decorative lanterns and glowing nighttime displays.

When is it: Celebrated on the 15th day of the first month of the Lunar calendar, typically in February or early March.

Conclusion

There are plenty of other Chinese holidays to explore, but the list above covers some of the most prominent and enjoyable cultural events for ESL teachers in China. Additional holidays include Arbor Day, Youth Day, Double Seven Festival, and the Hungry Ghost Festival, each with its own unique customs.

Local festivals are also worth checking out. For example, Beijing is known for the Taoranting Park Ice Carnival, and Harbin hosts the world-famous International Ice and Snow Festival.

Whether you’re new to China or a seasoned expat, celebrating Chinese holidays is a rewarding way to connect with the local culture and make lasting memories while teaching English in China.