What is Spring Festival?
Chinese New Year (Spring Festival, 春节) is China's most important holiday. It follows the lunar calendar — dates vary from late January to mid-February. The 2026 Spring Festival runs February 17–23.
What Happens
- Family reunions: Most Chinese travel home — the largest annual human migration on Earth
- Red decorations: Lanterns, couplets, and red envelopes everywhere
- Dumplings & feast: New Year's Eve dinner ( reunion dinner)
- Fireworks & firecrackers: Though banned in central cities, still common in suburbs
- CCTV Gala: The most-watched TV show in the world, 8pm on New Year's Eve
- Hongbao: Red envelopes with money, now often digital via WeChat
Tips for International Students
- Book travel early — trains sell out weeks ahead; flights double in price
- Many shops close — stock up on food, or use delivery (limited hours)
- Universities host celebrations — join campus events, dumpling-making, and performances
- Invite friends — Chinese classmates may invite you home for the reunion dinner
- Travel for the holiday — 7 days off; popular destinations: Harbin (ice festival), Sanya (beach), Southeast Asia
- Expect crowds — tourist sites are packed; consider staying local
Best Destinations for the Holiday
Harbin Ice Festival, Beijing temple fairs, Shanghai lantern shows, and southern beaches (Sanya, Xiamen) for warmth.