New Year's Day in China
View the global New Year's Day guide
New Year's Day is observed in China. This page provides information about the holiday date, public holiday status, observance, office closures, bank impact, school holidays and travel information.
New Year's Day
Holiday
China
Country
2026
Next Date Year
Thursday
Day
Jan
01
January 1, 2026
New Year's Day Date in China
Date
January 1, 2026
Day
Thursday
Public Holiday
Yes
Bank Holiday
Yes
Date Confirmed
Yes
New Year's Day Dates in China
New Year's Day 2026
- Confirmed
New Year's Day 2027
- Confirmed
New Year's Day 2028
- Confirmed
History of New Year's Day
The Gregorian New Year became part of China's official civil calendar in the early twentieth century. In the People's Republic of China it remains distinct from Spring Festival, or Lunar New Year, which is the country's longer and more culturally important family holiday.
Importance of New Year's Day
The date opens the civil and business year, but it should not be confused with Chinese New Year. Under the national holiday regulation effective from 2025, 1 January itself carries one day of statutory leave; any surrounding days come from the separately announced annual arrangement.
How New Year's Day Is Celebrated in China
Countdowns, concerts, shopping promotions and city events may mark 31 December and 1 January, especially in large urban centres. Celebrations are generally smaller than Spring Festival, and customs vary widely among cities, workplaces and families.
Office Impact
Government offices, public institutions and many private organizations may follow the official holiday schedule.
Bank Impact
Bank branches commonly follow the announced holiday calendar, although selected outlets and service counters may keep limited hours. Mobile payments, cards, ATMs and online banking continue, while interbank or staffed services may follow business-day processing.
School Impact
Schools use education-authority calendars that normally incorporate the official break. Because terms and winter vacations differ by locality and institution, families should confirm the exact closure and any adjusted school day.
Travel Information
A multi-day arrangement can raise demand for trains, flights, attractions and city breaks. Travellers should check the annual State Council notice as well as transport schedules, since a weekend may be redesignated as a working day.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is New Year's Day in China?
New Year's Day is observed in China.
Is New Year's Day a public holiday?
Yes. New Year's Day is listed as a public holiday in China for 2026.
Are banks and offices closed?
Banks are generally affected by the holiday schedule. Offices are marked as affected by the holiday. Schools are marked as affected by the holiday.