Christmas in Guangzhou

Christmas is not a Mainland China holiday, but the residents of Guangzhou love to ring in the season. The port city on the Pearl River is full of foreigners who bring the joy of the festivities with them to the region, and Christmas has become a time for celebrating with loved ones in this part of China.

Christmas and New Year’s are large shopping days in Guangzhou and the malls are decorated in traditional Christmas trees and colors. The region actually exports more Christmas ornaments and toys than any other in the country. During the holidays you can also snag some great deals on local goods. Yide Road boasts one of the largest Christmas markets on Earth and is a must for anyone who enjoys the holiday spirit. Lingnan Flower Market is another great option for seasonal décor.

Food is also a big draw in the region during the Christmas season. It’s not unusual to see large feasts hosted by local hotels, including a sensational buffet at the White Swan Hotel. For those looking for a more traditional, religious approach to Christmas, there are plenty of churches offering services during the holiday. With such a large expat population, it’s not difficult to find Christian churches in the city. Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is one of the largest Gothic churches in China and was built in the 1800s. Not only does it host worship services for the holiday, but it’s also one of the most beautiful works of architecture in Guangzhou.