Celebrate the Chinese New Year in Beijing

Celebrate The Chinese New Year in Beijing. The Chinese New Year also known as the Spring Festival, is not just a holiday, but a deeply ingrained part of Chinese cultural heritage symbolizing the commencement of a new year based on the lunar calendar. This festival is the epitome of Chinese traditions, embodying centuries of history, folklore, and cultural beliefs.

As the most significant holiday in China, it marks a time of family reunion and joyous celebration. Rooted in ancient traditions, the Chinese New Year is a vibrant tapestry of customs and rituals, each with its profound meaning. It's a time when families gather to bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, filled with hopes for prosperity, happiness, and good fortune.

This year 2024, Chinese New Year is set to begin on Saturday, February 10th, marking the start of the Year of the Dragon. 

In 2024, this significant festival will see Chinese nationals enjoying a week-long holiday, spanning from February 9th to February 15th.

Celebrating Chinese New Year in Beijing

In the heart of China, Beijing, the capital city, emerges as a central hub for these festivities. Beijing's rich historical backdrop and its role as a cultural epicenter make it a particularly fascinating place to experience the Chinese New Year. The city transforms into a spectacle of red and gold, with streets adorned in festive decorations, and the air filled with the aroma of traditional foods and the sounds of fireworks.

The celebration in Beijing is a blend of ancient customs and modern festivities. It offers a unique experience where one can witness the preservation of time-honored traditions alongside the dynamic, contemporary spirit of China's capital. From the iconic red lanterns that light up the ancient hutongs to the grandeur of the celebrations at the city's historical landmarks, Beijing during the Chinese New Year is a place where the past and present coalesce beautifully.

As we delve deeper into the celebration of the Chinese New Year in Beijing, we will explore the traditional and contemporary practices that make this festival a splendid and unforgettable experience. 

Join us as we journey through the bustling Temple Fairs, witness the grandeur of the lion and dragon dances, and savor the flavors of festive dishes, all of which make celebrating the Chinese New Year in Beijing a truly unique and enriching experience.

During the Chinese New Year, thousands of people travel to China to visit tons of attractions. A classic tour from the Windhorse Tour: the Classic China Tour, enables you to enjoy the most attractive cities in China during the Chinese New Year and there are some stimulating things to do in Beijing in this tour. Of course, if you choose to travel to Sichuan during the Chinese New Year, you can also get lots of fun.

What to do in Beijing during the Spring Festival

Try Jiaozi

You should not miss the historical and cultural city – of Beijing when you travel to China during the Chinese New Year. Local people have some unique things to do in Beijing and all those things are of high traditional value. Jiaozi (dumplings with meat and vegetable stuffing) is one of the delicious and traditional foods Beijing people must eat on the first day of the Chinese New Year. Most of the families make Jiaozi by themselves, for this tradition can increase the family bonds. 

Enjoy the fireworks 

Splendid fireworks shine in the sky of Beijing nearly all night during the Chinese New Year and the cracking sounds of firecrackers can be heard everywhere. The Temple Fairs (fairs held at various temples) are a kind of mass gatherings that integrate religious worship, entertainment, and commerce. In Temple Fairs, hundreds of booths demonstrate and sell traditional arts and crafts, and there are lots of games to play, food to eat, and folk performances to enjoy. 

The Lantern Festival

The Lantern Festival symbolizes the end of the Chinese New Year and people in Beijing and other cities will light many sparkling lanterns in multitudes of shapes.

When you travel to China during the Chinese New Year, the following things to do in Beijing will add pleasant and fun to your tour.

What to visit in Beijing during the Spring Festival

Visiting Beijing during the Chinese New Year offers a unique and vibrant experience, with various attractions and events that showcase the rich cultural heritage of China. Here are some must-visit places and activities in Beijing during this festive season:

Temple Fairs (Miao Hui)

These fairs are a staple of Chinese New Year celebrations in Beijing. They are held in various temples and parks around the city.

Key locations include the Temple of Earth (Ditan Park), the Temple of Heaven, and Longtan Park.

Activities include traditional performances, such as dragon and lion dances, folk music, and acrobatics. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of local snacks and shop for handicrafts.

The Forbidden City

The Forbidden City- The ancient imperial palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is especially beautiful during the New Year with its traditional decorations.

The Palace Museum often hosts special exhibitions and cultural activities during this period.

Beijing Hutongs

Exploring the old alleyways (Hutongs) offers a glimpse into traditional Beijing life.

The Hutongs are beautifully decorated during the New Year, and you can enjoy local snacks and experience traditional Beijing culture.

Wangfujing Snack Street

For a taste of traditional Chinese New Year cuisine, Wangfujing Snack Street is a must-visit. It's famous for its wide array of street food.

Great Wall of China

While not a traditional New Year activity, visiting the Great Wall during this period can be a unique experience, as it’s less crowded and the winter scenery can be breathtaking.

National Centre for the Performing Arts

For those interested in arts, the National Centre for the Performing Arts hosts special performances during the New Year season, including traditional Chinese music and dance shows.

Shopping at New Year Markets

Beijing’s New Year markets are great for shopping for souvenirs, gifts, and traditional New Year goods. Popular spots include Hongqiao Market and Panjiayuan Market.

Yonghe Lama Temple

This famous Tibetan Buddhist temple in Beijing holds special events and rituals during the Chinese New Year and is adorned with beautiful decorations.

Ice Skating at Shichahai

Enjoy ice skating on the frozen lakes of Shichahai, a popular winter activity for both locals and tourists.

Remember, during the Chinese New Year, many attractions may have different operating hours, and some places might be more crowded than usual. It's always a good idea to check the opening times and plan your visit accordingly.

Tips for Visitors: Enjoying the New Year Festivities in Beijing

Plan Ahead

Accommodation and Transport: Book your accommodations and transport well in advance, as the Chinese New Year is a peak travel season.

Event Schedules: Check the schedules for events and attractions since some places may have special operating hours or be closed during the festival.

Embrace the Local Traditions

Participate in local customs like watching dragon dances, lantern festivals, and temple fairs to get an authentic experience of the New Year celebrations.

Dress Appropriately

Beijing can be quite cold during this time, so dress warmly in layers. Also, wearing something red is considered auspicious during the New Year.

Be Prepared for Crowds

Major attractions and public transport can be very crowded. Plan your itinerary to avoid the busiest times and always keep your belongings secure.

Try Traditional Foods

Don’t miss out on traditional New Year dishes like dumplings (jiaozi), fish, and glutinous rice cakes (nian gao). They are not only delicious but also carry symbolic meanings.

Learn a Few Phrases in Mandarin

Simple phrases like “Happy New Year” (新年快乐, xīn nián kuài lè) and “Thank you” (谢谢, xiè xiè) can go a long way in creating friendly interactions.

Cultural Dos and Don'ts during the Festival

Dos:

Respect Traditions: Show respect for local customs and traditions. Participate in activities and ask questions if you’re curious.

Gift Giving: If you’re invited to a local’s home, it’s polite to bring a small gift. Red envelopes (hongbao) with money are traditional but not expected from foreigners.

Public Decorum: Be respectful in public places, especially during performances and rituals.

Don'ts:

Avoid Taboo Topics: Refrain from discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion.

No Pointing or Touching Artifacts: In temples and museums, pointing at or touching statues and artifacts is generally considered disrespectful.

Littering: Always dispose of your trash properly. Littering is frowned upon and can attract fines.

Loudness: Avoid being overly loud or boisterous, especially in temples and during performances.

Additional Tips

Digital Payments: Many places in Beijing accept digital payments, but it’s wise to carry some cash for smaller vendors that may not.

Health Precautions: Depending on the current health advisories, wear masks in crowded places and carry hand sanitizer.

Stay Informed: Keep an eye on local news and advisories, especially regarding any travel restrictions or health and safety guidelines.

The Classic China Tour to Beijing - Xi'an - Guilin - Shanghai 13 Days takes you to 3 must-see cities in eastern China, which includes a memorable hike along the Great Wall.