Hey it’s Kojo! China is a land of rich traditions, massive internal travel waves, and major holiday periods that can make or break your trip. If you’re planning to visit in 2025 — whether for business, sightseeing, or digital nomad life — knowing China’s public holidays is absolutely essential. Trust me, I’ve seen airports packed, trains fully booked, and cities go quiet during these national celebrations.
Here’s a full breakdown of China’s major public holidays in 2025, plus some insider tips to help you travel smarter and avoid chaos.
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | What It’s About |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Celebrates the start of the Gregorian calendar year |
| Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) | January 29 – February 4 | Wednesday to Tuesday | China’s biggest holiday — family reunions, fireworks, and massive travel |
| Qingming Festival (Tomb Sweeping Day) | April 4 | Friday | Day to honor and clean ancestors’ graves |
| Labor Day | May 1 – May 3 | Thursday to Saturday | National holiday celebrating workers’ contributions |
| Dragon Boat Festival | May 31 – June 2 | Saturday to Monday | Traditional holiday with boat races and sticky rice dumplings |
| Mid-Autumn Festival | October 6 | Monday | Moon-viewing, family gatherings, and mooncakes |
| National Day “Golden Week” | October 1 – 7 | Wednesday to Tuesday | Celebrates the founding of the People’s Republic of China — major travel surge |
1. Do Chinese holidays affect international travelers?
Absolutely. Transportation, accommodation, and even tourist sites can be impacted — either overcrowded or unexpectedly closed. Always double-check schedules around major festivals.
2. Can I still find food and essentials during holidays?
In cities, yes — convenience stores and large hotel chains remain open. But in smaller towns, many family-run shops and restaurants shut down, especially during the Spring Festival.
3. Why are there “make-up workdays” in China?
China often adjusts weekends to create longer holiday blocks. It’s common to work a weekend before or after a public holiday — so locals might be working on a Saturday to “make up” for a day off.
China’s public holidays are a fascinating part of the culture — but they also come with logistical challenges for travelers. If you plan around them wisely, you can either enjoy the celebrations or dodge the crowds entirely. Either way, you’ll come out with stories to tell!
— Kojo, from Explore With Kojo
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