Festivals & Holidays

• What are the public holidays in China? Is it a good idea to come during these holidays?

  Jan.1st ---- New Year's Day; 1 day holiday, but composed with weekend it is always a 3 days

  Jan/Feb ---- Spring Festival (Chinese lunar New Year); 4 days holiday, plus weekend to 7-8 days        

  Mar. 8th ---- International Women’s' Day; 1/2 day holiday for women only

  May.1st ---- International Workers' Day; 3 day holiday, but composed with weekend it is 7 days

  Oct. 1st ---- National Day; 3 days holiday but composed with weekend it is 7 days

• What Mascots do the Chinese Believe?

  Traditional Chinese folk legends hold dragon, phoenix, tortoise and kylin (Chinese unicorn) to be the "four mascots". The pattern of the flying dragon and dancing phoenix, in particular, is believed to be a symbol of good luck.

• What Major Rites and Ceremonies?

  Chinese commemorate what they call the four major rites and ceremonies of a lifetime: birth, coming of age, wedding and funeral. Anniversaries for birthdays, wedding days and departure days also observed.
  
  Each of these four major rites follows a fixed pattern and the wedding ceremony, in particular, consists of preparatory rites and the formal ceremony proper. Altogether, the wedding ceremony includes the following steps: proposal; discussion of proposal; visiting each other; betrothal; delivery of betrothal gifts; setting the wedding date; fetching the bride; bowing to heaven and earth, parents of both sides and to each other; the wedding banquet; going into the bridal chamber; fun-making party at the bridal chamber; and returning of the bride to her parents.

• What vaccine do we need for traveling to China and do you have any other medical suggestions?

  While traveling with CITS, we take every precaution to provide a safe and healthy environment for you. We choose restaurants and hotels that are clean, safe, and we always keep your needs and interests in mind. However, here are some precautions for you to take into consideration for your trip to China. In addition, all travelers are recommended to take their medical records when they travel.

• Do I need to bring my medical record when traveling in China?

  Yes, all travelers are recommended to take their medical records along. In the event of an emergency, your medical records will be of great assistance. The medical record should include your blood type, immunization record, allergies, and any medications you are currently taking (both prescription and non-prescription). It should also include your doctor's name, address, phone number, emergency contact name and phone number, and your insurance company's name, address and phone number.

• What major Festivals do the Chinese Celebrate?

  In addition to the Spring Festival, Chinese people also celebrate the following festivals:

  --Lantern Festival

  This falls on the 15th of the first lunar month, an occasion for eating yuanxiao, or sweet dumplings made of glutinous rice flour, hanging lanterns, visiting lantern shows, performing the Dragon Lantern and Drum Dances.

  In addition to the Spring Festival, Chinese people also celebrate the following festivals:

  --Lantern Festival

  This falls on the 15th of the first lunar month, an occasion for eating yuanxiao, or sweet dumplings made of glutinous rice flour, hanging lanterns, visiting lantern shows, performing the Dragon Lantern and Drum Dances.

  --Tomb Sweeping Festival

  This day falls around April 5 of the western calendar, and it is named after the fifth solar term of the Chinese calendar. Activities include excursions and tomb sweeping.

  --Dragon Boat Festival

  Falling on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, this festival was set aside in memory of the great poet Qu Yuan, who drowned himself over 2,000 years ago after the emperor refused to heed his remonstration. The main activity is Dragon Boat racing. In the countryside, people also carry incense pouches, get roped up, drink realgar wine and eat Zongzi (a pyramid-shaped dumpling made of glutinous rice wrapped in bamboo or reed leaves).

  --Double-Ninth Festival

  This festival is named because it falls on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. The main feature is chrysanthemum-admiring the flower and drinking chrysanthemum wine. A special cake is also served. In addition, many people go on excursions to lose themselves in nature.

  --Mid Autumn Festival

  This is another important festival in China on a full moon day in autumn. The Chinese celebrate the family reunion by banquets with wines and moon cakes and gifts.