📆 When is Chinese New Year?

In 2024, Chinese New Year falls on February 10th. The national Chinese New Year holidays lasts for 7 days, until February 17th.

🧧 Is Chinese New Year the biggest holiday in China?

Yes, this is the most important time of the year for Chinese families.

🎉 How many days off do Chinese get for Chinese New Year?

The short answer is 3 , but the government, to cater for long journeys home, extends this to 7 days . However, due to this weekend days must be worked before and after Chinese New Year.

How long is Chinese New Year 2026?

The official public holiday in China for Chinese New Year 2026 runs for 7 days, starting on Tuesday 17 February. The full Spring Festival celebration period lasts 15 days, ending with the Lantern Festival on Wednesday 4 March 2026. Many families start preparations, deep cleaning, cooking, shopping, in the week before the new year begins.

What is the Chinese New Year animal for 2026?

Chinese New Year 2026 is the Year of the Horse (马年, Mǎ Nián). The Horse is the seventh animal in the 12-year Chinese zodiac cycle. Horse years are associated with energy, independence, and enthusiasm. If you were born in 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, or 2014, 2026 is your zodiac year.

What not to do on 17 February, Chinese New Year 2026?

On New Year's Day (17 February 2026), tradition says you should avoid: sweeping or taking out rubbish (sweeps away good luck), washing your hair (washes away prosperity), using sharp objects like scissors or knives (cuts your luck), wearing black or white (mourning colours), breaking anything (bad omen for the year), crying or arguing, and lending or borrowing money. If you do accidentally break something, say 岁岁平安 (suì suì píng ān) immediately to turn the mishap into a blessing.

Is it wrong to call it Chinese New Year?

No. 'Chinese New Year' is a widely used, accurate, and accepted term in English. In mainland China, the festival is officially called 春节 (Chūn Jié, Spring Festival). The term 'Chinese New Year' is used globally and by Chinese communities themselves, particularly in the diaspora. 'Lunar New Year' is a broader, more inclusive term that also covers the related celebrations in Korea (Seollal) and Vietnam (Tet), among others. Using either term respectfully is completely appropriate.

Why is Chinese New Year called the Spring Festival?

In Chinese, the festival is called 春节 (Chūn Jié), meaning 'Spring Festival'. This name reflects the holiday's agricultural origins: it marks the end of winter and the start of the spring planting season in the traditional Chinese lunar calendar. The name 'Chinese New Year' is more common in English-speaking contexts and international media, while 'Spring Festival' is the official and everyday name used in mainland China.

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