Golden Week is the longest national holiday in China after Chinese New Year. It is not a moveable holiday and falls every year from October 1 to 7. The period is long, so Golden Week is the perfect opportunity for Chinese people to relax and visit family living far away while businesses and factories remain closed. How is Golden Week 2024 celebrated in China, and how should importers prepare for this period?
National holiday – Golden Week 2024
What are the origins of Golden Week in China?
On October 1, the National Day of the People’s Republic of China begins Golden Week. It commemorates the proclamation of the republic by Mao Zedong in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square in 1949. It symbolizes the end of the civil war and the victory of the Chinese Communist Party over the National Party of China, known as the Kuomintang, whose representatives retreated to Taiwan, establishing the Republic of China there.
In 1999, six additional days off were added to the National Holiday celebrated on October 1, creating a long period of time off from work. This was meant to encourage travel, boost tourism, and give Chinese people time to visit their families.
How do the Chinese celebrate Golden Week?
October 1 is celebrated most festively. Various cultural and sports events, concerts and fireworks shows are held in cities. One of the most important events on this day is the flag-raising ceremony of the People’s Republic of China in Beijing’s Heavenly Peace Square. In many cities, wreath-laying ceremonies are held in front of monuments to pay tribute to the fallen of the Civil War. A special gala to celebrate the National Day of the People’s Republic of China can be seen on television. Meanwhile, the next six days are often spent by Chinese people traveling around the country and shopping.
Where did the name Golden Week in China come from?
The Golden Week got its name because, during this short period, stores, hotels, and restaurants record the highest revenues of the year.
National holiday – Golden Week 2024 and importing from China
It is worth remembering that all factories halt production throughout the Golden Week from October 1 until October 7. During this time, shipping companies and customs offices also reduce the number of personnel on-site. Keep in mind that there may also be problems in contacting a Chinese contractor.
It is worth contacting your business partner in advance, booking, and arranging transportation to prevent any difficulties. It is also advisable to prepare stocks of goods and take into account that just before Golden Week, factories tend to speed up production, often at the expense of product quality, so you should not wait to place orders until the last minute.