The Most Colourful Festivals in China - Time your visit for the festivities

The Snow and Ice Festival, held annually in Harbin, is one of China's most spectacular winter events. Transforming the city into a magical wonderland of ice and snow sculptures, the festival features intricate artworks created by skilled artisans from around the world. Visitors can marvel at towering ice castles, intricate sculptures, and illuminated ice lanterns, as well as enjoy a variety of activities such as ice skating, sledding, and snowboarding. With its breathtaking displays of artistry and creativity, the Snow and Ice Festival is a truly enchanting spectacle that attracts visitors from near and far.

The Qingming Festival, also known as Tomb-Sweeping Day, is a traditional Chinese festival that falls in early April, marking the arrival of spring. During this time, families gather to pay respects to their ancestors by cleaning and maintaining their gravesites, offering food and flowers, and participating in traditional rituals. In addition to honouring the deceased, the Qingming Festival is also a time for outdoor activities such as kite flying, picnicking, and enjoying the beauty of blooming flowers and fresh greenery. With its focus on family, tradition, and the beauty of nature, the Qingming Festival is a meaningful celebration of life and heritage.

The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month and is one of China's most energetic festivals. The highlight of the festival is the dragon boat races, where teams of rowers paddle ornately decorated boats to the beat of drums, competing to reach the finish line first. In addition to the races, the Dragon Boat Festival is also celebrated with traditional rituals, including eating zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), hanging aromatic herbs, and warding off evil spirits. With its vibrant boats, festive atmosphere, and cultural significance, the Dragon Boat Festival is a lively celebration that honours an ancient Chinese hero. 

The Ghost Festival, also known as Zhongyuan Jie, is a traditional Chinese festival held in the seventh month of the lunar calendar when it is believed that the gates of the underworld are opened and the spirits of the deceased return to the earthly realm. During this time, families pay tribute to their ancestors by offering food, burning incense, and performing rituals to ensure their well-being in the afterlife. The Ghost Festival is also marked by elaborate performances, including opera, puppet shows, and street parades, as well as the release of paper lanterns and floating boats to guide the spirits back to the underworld. With its colourful displays, solemn rituals, and spiritual significance, the Ghost Festival is a fascinating and deeply meaningful observance in Chinese culture. 

Yuandan, or Chinese New Year, is the most important and colourful festival in China, marking the beginning of the lunar new year. The festival is celebrated with a dazzling array of customs and traditions, including lion and dragon dances, firecrackers, temple fairs, and family reunions. Streets are adorned with red lanterns and decorations symbolizing prosperity and good fortune, while homes are cleaned and decorated to welcome the arrival of spring. The highlight of the Chinese New Year celebrations is the festive feast, featuring traditional dishes that are believed to bring luck and prosperity for the year ahead. With its joyful atmosphere, vibrant colours, and rich cultural traditions, Yuandan is a time of renewal, reflection, and celebration for people across China. Most visitors lodged at Pan Pacific Ningbo also get to experience the festivities of the season. Inquire with your Ningbo city guide for more information.