How Christmas Started in China

The vast majority of Christmas celebrations in China have arrived due to a commercialistic nature, and a number of white-collar Chinese professionals are embracing the Western cultural influence. Whether after spending time in neighboring Japan (which celebrates Christmas) or through catering to foreigners wanting to celebrate, the larger cities are accepting the December 25 holiday as part of their society in the twenty-first century.

Just because Christians and larger cities have adopted the Christmas traditions does not mean that the entire population is on board with the holiday. Some students have publicly rejected the holiday, calling for others to do the same. It seems as though the holiday is in the country to stay, regardless of the feelings of some, though Asian countries are more accepting of Western cultural traditions than ever before.

Celebrations of Christmas in China

Regardless of how Christmas started in China, it is now widespread throughout the major cities like Beijing and Hong Kong. Christians may call the holiday “Sheng Dan Jieh,” which means “Holy Birth Festival.” Catholics observe the holiday by attending midnight masses held in Chinese, English, or both languages. Christians decorate with portrayals of Joseph, Mary, and Jesus in a Chinese setting.

Observances by Chinese society who may celebrate Christmas but not identify themselves with Christian religions are similar to the secular celebrations of the United States. For example, Chinese may put up an artificial Christmas tree, called the “Tree of Lights.” They decorate it with paper lanterns, Chinese decorations, or holly berries. Other Chinese Christmas rituals include:

• Children hanging muslin stockings for “Dun Che Lao Ren” (Christmas Old Man), who leaves gifts in them.
• Decorating homes or apartments with paper lanterns.
• Sending out Christmas cards.
• Christmas music played by retailers.
• Santa Clauses in stores and shops.
• Exchange of Christmas gifts.
• Participation in local festivals if any are held.

In large cities such as Hong Kong, a fireworks display may also be done in celebration of Christmas.

Despite the growing acceptance of the Christmas holiday, the Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) is still the biggest celebration of the winter months for most Chinese people. Preparations for this holiday can be done during the typical Christmas holiday season.

Chinese New Year

At the end of January, the Chinese lunar calendar ends. Each year is named after an animal. According to Buddhist teachings, Buddha had a large party and invited hundreds of guests. Only twelve animals came. To show them honor for attending, Buddha named a year after each one. The New Year celebrations include the honoring of ancestors.

The Chinese people often prepare for Chinese New Year by cleaning their homes. It is thought that they are cleaning out any misfortune, while preparing for good luck to come to them in the upcoming year.

One the eve of the New Year, a large feast is often held. Families leave their lights on in their homes until midnight, at which time a fireworks display is held. Gifts can be exchanged, such as clothes, new toys, and other trinkets between family members, which makes this holiday very similar to Christmas celebrations.

Share Chinese Christmas Traditions with LoveToKnow

If you are Chinese and observe the Chinese New Year and/or Christmas, share your holiday traditions with others by adding a comment. Or, if you have celebrated Christmas while traveling in China, post your holiday experience.