- This guide provides schedules for major Chinese holidays in 2028, including public holidays and other traditional observances.
- Chinese New Year begins on January 26, 2028, marking the start of the Year of the Monkey.
- Many traditional Chinese holidays follow the Chinese lunisolar calendar, so their Gregorian dates change every year.
- Public-holiday schedules in China may include adjusted workdays, which are announced in official government notices.
- CLI’s academic calendar may differ from China’s public-holiday calendar.
The following charts provide schedules for Chinese holidays in 2028. Holidays are categorized as Chinese Public Holidays and Other Chinese Holidays and Observances.
Chinese holidays are an important part of life in China. They shape travel plans, school schedules, family gatherings, cultural events, and the rhythm of the academic year.
If your goal is to Learn Chinese in China, understanding the Chinese holiday calendar will help you plan your studies, travel, and cultural experiences more effectively.
01 Chinese Public Holidays in 2028
China’s public holidays include several of the country’s most important annual celebrations. These holidays often affect schools, government offices, banks, transportation, and many businesses.
The table below lists Chinese public holidays in 2028.
| Date | Holiday | Chinese |
|---|---|---|
| January 1st | New Year's Day | 元旦 |
| January 26th - 31st | Chinese New Year | 春节 |
| April 2nd - 4th | Qingming Festival | 清明节 |
| May 1st - 5th | Labor Day | 劳动节 |
| June 25th - 27th | Dragon Boat Festival | 端午节 |
| October 3rd | Mid-Autumn Festival | 中秋节 |
| October 1st - 7th | National Day Golden Week Holiday | 国庆节 |
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02 Other Chinese Holidays and Observances in 2028
In addition to public holidays, China observes many traditional, cultural, and seasonal festivals. Some are widely celebrated across the country, while others are more regional, symbolic, or family-centered.
The table below lists other Chinese holidays and observances in 2028.
| Date | Holiday | Chinese |
|---|---|---|
| February 9th | Lantern Festival | 元宵节 |
| March 8th | International Women's Day | 妇女节 |
| March 21st | Spring Equinox | 春分 |
| May 4th | Youth Day | 青年节 |
| June 1st | Children's Day | 儿童节 |
| June 21st | Summer Solstice | 夏至 |
| July 1st | CPC Founding Day | 建党节 |
| August 1st | Army Day | 建军节 |
| August 26th | Chinese Valentine's Day | 七夕 |
| September 10th | Teachers' Day | 教师节 |
| September 22nd | Autumn Equinox | 秋分 |
| November 11th | Singles’ Day | 双十一 |
| December 21st | Winter Solstice | 冬至 |
Remember that many holidays, such as Chinese New Year, Lantern Festival, and Mid-Autumn Festival, are based on the Chinese lunar calendar. As a result, their Gregorian calendar dates change every year.
03 Why Chinese holidays matter
Chinese holidays offer insight into the country’s history, family values, seasonal rhythms, and traditional beliefs. They also provide excellent opportunities for Chinese learners to experience culture outside the classroom.
During major holidays, you may hear special greetings, see seasonal decorations, eat symbolic foods, and notice changes in travel patterns. These cultural details can make your Chinese learning experience more vivid and memorable.
For example, Chinese New Year is closely connected with family reunions, red decorations, fireworks, and zodiac traditions. Qingming Festival centers on ancestor remembrance, while the Dragon Boat Festival is associated with dragon boat racing and zòngzi.
04 Planning around Chinese holidays in 2028
If you plan to study, work, or travel in China in 2028, it is useful to check holiday dates before booking transportation or accommodation. Major holidays can bring large increases in domestic travel.
Chinese New Year and National Day Golden Week are especially busy travel periods. Train tickets, flights, hotels, and popular tourist sites can become crowded during these times.
Students should also remember that school and program calendars may not always match national public-holiday schedules exactly. CLI students should confirm class schedules directly with CLI staff before making travel plans.
05 FAQ
When is Chinese New Year in 2028?
Chinese New Year falls on January 26, 2028. In the table above, the holiday period is listed as January 26th - 31st.
What are China’s main public holidays in 2028?
China’s main public holidays in 2028 include New Year’s Day, Chinese New Year, Qingming Festival, Labor Day, Dragon Boat Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, and National Day Golden Week.
Why do Chinese holiday dates change every year?
Many traditional Chinese holidays follow the Chinese lunisolar calendar rather than the Gregorian calendar. This is why holidays such as Chinese New Year, Lantern Festival, Dragon Boat Festival, and Mid-Autumn Festival fall on different Gregorian dates each year.
Does CLI follow China’s public-holiday schedule?
CLI’s academic calendar may differ from China’s public-holiday schedule. Students should consult CLI’s Admissions Manager or their teachers for the most up-to-date class schedule.
Are Chinese holidays good times to travel?
Chinese holidays can be culturally rewarding times to travel, but major holidays are often very busy. Chinese New Year and National Day Golden Week are especially crowded travel periods.
06 Final thoughts
Chinese holidays in 2028 offer many opportunities to experience Chinese culture through festivals, food, family gatherings, travel, and seasonal traditions.
Whether you are planning a trip, preparing for a study program, or simply learning more about Chinese culture, understanding the holiday calendar will help you make better plans and appreciate the rhythm of life in China.