What does China call Christmas holiday? This question may seem simple, but it touches upon a deeper cultural and linguistic topic. Christmas, celebrated around the world as a festive season of joy and giving, has a unique name in Chinese, reflecting the country’s unique cultural heritage and social context.
Christmas, known as “Dong’er” (圣诞节) in Chinese, is derived from the English word “Christmas.” However, the term “Dong’er” is not widely used by the general population. Instead, many Chinese people refer to Christmas as “Xianren Jie” (圣诞节), which directly translates to “Christmas Day.” This name is more commonly used in official contexts and among younger generations who are more exposed to Western culture.
Another term that is sometimes used to refer to Christmas in China is “Shengdan Jie” (圣诞)，which is a shortened form of “Shengdan Huojian” (圣诞火箭)，meaning “Christmas Rocket.” This name is believed to have originated from the early 20th century, when Christmas was first introduced to China. The term “Huojian” (火箭) was used to describe the fireworks and decorations that were associated with the celebration.
In addition to these names, Christmas is also known as “Shengdan Huojian Jie” (圣诞火箭节) in some regions. This name emphasizes the festive atmosphere of the holiday, with its focus on fireworks and decorations.
The unique names for Christmas in China reflect the country’s diverse cultural landscape. While the holiday is celebrated by many Chinese people, its origins and traditions are not as deeply rooted in Chinese culture as other festivals, such as the Spring Festival (春节) or the Mid-Autumn Festival (中秋节). As a result, the holiday is often associated with Western influences and consumerism.
In recent years, Christmas has gained popularity in China, particularly among young people and urban dwellers. Shopping malls, department stores, and restaurants often decorate their premises with Christmas-themed decorations and offer special promotions. This has led to the rise of “Shengdan Shangjie” (圣诞购物节), or Christmas Shopping Festival, which has become a significant event for many.
In conclusion, what China calls Christmas holiday is a reflection of the country’s unique cultural heritage and social context. While the term “Dong’er” (圣诞节) is the official name, many Chinese people refer to the holiday as “Xianren Jie” (圣诞节) or “Shengdan Jie” (圣诞)，with “Shengdan Huojian Jie” (圣诞火箭节) being another popular name in some regions. The holiday’s growing popularity in China is a testament to the blending of traditional and modern cultural elements in the country’s rapidly evolving society.
