In China, Christmas is known as Sheng Dan Jieh, which translates to “Holy Birth Festival.” Although only a small percentage of the population is Christian, the holiday is celebrated with enthusiasm in larger cities and has become increasingly popular in recent years. Chinese people have adopted many Western Christmas customs and added their own unique touches to the celebration.
Homes and public spaces are adorned with festive decorations like evergreen plants, colorful paper chains, and bright posters. One of the most important symbols of the season is the Christmas tree, referred to as the Tree of Light. The tree is typically decorated with paper lanterns, flowers, and red paper chains, which symbolize happiness and good fortune. In addition, families often cut out red paper pagodas to paste on their windows and light up their houses with paper lanterns, creating a warm and cheerful atmosphere.
In China, Santa Claus is known by several names, including Sheng Dan Lao Ren (Old Christmas Man) and Lan Khoong-Khoong (Nice Old Father). On Christmas Eve, children hang up their muslin stockings, hoping that Santa will fill them with small gifts and treats. Santa’s presence is most visible in major cities, where shopping malls and department stores set up elaborate displays featuring the jolly figure, often dressed in a silk robe instead of his traditional red suit.
Christmas is mainly celebrated in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, where festive decorations, twinkling lights, garlands, and wreaths adorn shopping centers, restaurants, and public spaces. Many young Chinese people see Christmas as a romantic holiday, similar to Valentine’s Day, and exchange gifts with their loved ones. It’s also common for friends and families to gather for Christmas parties or enjoy a big dinner at a restaurant, savoring both traditional Chinese dishes and Western-style holiday fare.
In Hong Kong, Christmas celebrations blend Western and local customs. In addition to traditional Christmas festivities, people also observe Ta Chiu, a festival of renewal and peace. During Ta Chiu, offerings are made to saints, and community members read aloud the names of everyone living in the area as a way to ensure peace and good fortune for the coming year.
One unique Christmas tradition that has gained popularity in China is giving apples on Christmas Eve. This custom originated because the Chinese word for Christmas Eve, Ping’an Ye, means “Peaceful Night,” and the Mandarin word for apple is pingguo, which sounds similar to the word for peace. As a result, apples have become a symbol of peace and goodwill, and they are often given as gifts, wrapped in decorative paper, to friends and family during the holiday season.
While Christmas is not a traditional Chinese holiday, it has been embraced by many people, especially in urban areas, as a time for celebration, generosity, and joy. With its unique mix of Western and Chinese traditions, the holiday season in China is a colorful and festive time, bringing people together to share in the spirit of the season.
While Christmas is not a traditional holiday in China, many families and friends gather to enjoy delicious meals during the festive season. Some classic Chinese dishes are often served at holiday dinners, blending rich flavors and textures that bring warmth and joy to the table. Here are a few authentic recipes that are perfect for holiday celebrations in China:
Peking Duck is a famous Chinese dish that is often enjoyed during special occasions, including holiday celebrations. It features crispy skin and tender meat served with pancakes, hoisin sauce, and fresh vegetables, making it a crowd-pleaser at any festive gathering.
Sweet and Sour Pork is a classic Chinese dish that features crispy pork pieces tossed in a tangy and sweet sauce. This dish is often served during holiday gatherings and special occasions because of its vibrant flavors and appealing presentation.
Spring Rolls are a popular appetizer or snack during festive occasions in China. These crispy rolls are filled with a mixture of vegetables and meat, and are enjoyed with a dipping sauce that adds extra flavor to each bite.
Tang Yuan are sweet glutinous rice balls filled with black sesame paste or red bean paste. They are traditionally enjoyed during the Lantern Festival and other festive occasions, symbolizing family togetherness and reunion.
These recipes bring the authentic flavors of China to your holiday table. Enjoy making and sharing these traditional dishes with your loved ones during the festive season!