The calendar of holidays in China for 2024

The Chinese year is rich in celebrations that present real opportunities for businesses. Traditional festivals, celebrations and commemorations are special occasions for people to come together. These key dates in the Chinese calendar are accompanied by a peak in consumption of refined foods, cosmetics and other luxury goods, which are often bought and given as gifts. The economic dynamism is also linked to the numerous trips across the country to gather and celebrate these moments with family and friends. These celebrations are complemented by commercial events. These annual marketing operations are very successful, with record sales. Here’s an overview of the most important dates to remember when planning your marketing activities and campaigns in China this year.

Traditional Holidays

Chinese New Year – February 10th, 2024

The Chinese New Year marks the beginning of the lunar year, which this year is under the sign of the Wooden Dragon. The New Year is followed two weeks later by the Lantern Festival. This period is characterized by an extended holiday season preceded by intense commercial activity. Tourism is also at its peak. However, during this week-long holiday, the productive economy slows down: most shops and factories shut down.

Qingming Festival – April 4th, 2024

This festival, held on April 4th, is dedicated to the memory of the deceased. Families visit graves to care for them and make offerings. A short holiday is granted on this occasion.

Dragon Boat Festival – June 10th, 2024

The Dragon Boat Festival, a tribute to the poet Qu Yuan, is marked by boat races and the tasting of zongzi, traditional rice cakes.

Mid-Autumn Festival – September 17th, 2024

Also known as the Moon Festival, this celebration is an opportunity for families to get together and enjoy traditional moon cakes. The two days before are public holidays for family reunions and tourism.

Qixi – August 10th, 2024

Celebrated on the 7th day of the 7th moon, this love festival is comparable to Western Valentine’s Day. (In China, May 20 can also be considered Love Day, as the pronunciation of this date (520) is phonetically close to “I love you” in Chinese).

Commercial Days

E-Commerce Day (18.06) – June 18th

This date is marked by promotions and special offers on e-commerce platforms, attracting the attention of consumers.

Singles’ Day (11/11) – November 11th

Initiated by Alibaba, Singles’ Day has become the world’s largest e-commerce event, offering massive promotional opportunities.

Double 12 Festival – December 12th

December 12 is another opportunity for promotions after Singles’ Day, prolonging the commercial frenzy.

Holidays and working days

In China, in order to take advantage of consecutive days off for certain holidays, working days are compensated by weekend days that are exceptionally worked. This year, for example, the Chinese will work on Sundays February 4th and 18th, April 7th and 28th, Saturday May 11th, Saturday September 14th, Sunday September 29th, and Saturday October 12th.

China’s uniqueness lies in its ability to blend ancestral traditions with contemporary influences. The Chinese calendar combines traditional holidays such as Lunar New Year and Mid-Autumn Festival with modern commercial events such as Singles’ Day and E-Commerce Festival. By understanding and incorporating these traditions into their marketing strategies, companies can not only strengthen their relationships with Chinese consumers, but also increase their sales and visibility in this dynamic market. In fact, every holiday is an opportunity for companies to offer attractive promotions and build strong relationships with Chinese consumers. By strategically planning your activities around these dates, you can maximize your impact on this market.