Beijing, the capital of China, is also the cultural center of the country. This means that there are a wide variety of festivals in different categories held in Beijing every year.
See below for a full list of those we have covered.
The Mid-Autumn Festival in Beijing
The Mid-Autumn Festival falls on the 15th day of the 8th month of the Chinese lunar calendar (within about two weeks of September 17).
During this festival, various traditional activities are held. Nine popular places in Beijing to celebrate Mid-Autumn are recommended for your reference. Read more
Christmas in Beijing - Celebrating Christmas 2025 in Beijing
Although still considered a foreign festival, Christmas is more and more popular in China. Big sales and displays are found easily in the malls in Beijing.
Also there are some events to take part in (meals, church services, etc.) Beijing in Christmas.
Beijing 798 Art Festival
798 Art Zone, located in Chaoyang District, Beijing, is a cultural and creative industry district.
When the grand 798 Art Festival is held inside it, it has become a place you have to visit in Beijing. The date for the festival varies, but is normally at the end of September.
Chinese New Year 2025 in Beijing for Locals and Tourists
Chinese New Year reunion dinner The Chinese New Year, also called the Spring Festival or Chunjie, is the biggest holiday of the year in Beijing. It is a prime time to visit and experience the local vibe.
Huangyaguan Great Wall Marathon
There is a Mao Zedong saying, "One who fails to reach the Great Wall is no hero." So the one who runs a marathon on the Great Wall is … a superhero?!!
The course of the Huangyaguan Great Wall Marathon is difficult, and exciting. The date is the third Saturday of May each year.
The Bird's Nest Ice and Snow Festival
The Bird's Nest Ice and Snow Festival, using the Beijing Olympics' National Stadium as its main festival area, attracts millions of tourists every January and February.
It is a Disney princess themed festival, designed by the National Stadium and Disney.
- 6-Day Beijing Winter Tour with Skiing in a 2022 Olympic Winter Games Venue
- One Day Beijing Highlights Private Tour
Longqing Gorge Ice and Snow Festival
Jan.
Longqing Gorge Ice and Snow Festival is a smaller version of the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival, held from mid-January to the end of February.
The theme changes every year, but tourists always have the chance to see massive, interesting, beautiful, and spectacular ice sculptures.
Red Leaf Festival at Fragrant Hill
Oct.
The Red Leaf Festival is held at Fragrant Hill, the most famous place for viewing fall hues in China.
From mid-October to early November, millions of tourists go to Fragrant Hill to enjoy the beautiful autumn scenery.
Beijing Chrysanthemum Exhibition
Oct.
The Beijing Chrysanthemum Exhibition is held for chrysanthemum enthusiasts in different parks in Beijing, in October or November depending on the park.
Beihai Park is the most famous exhibition area. During the festival, visitors can view and buy the colorful flowers.
Beijing International Long-Distance Running Festival
Apr.
The Beijing International Long-Distance Running Festival is one of the largest sports events in China.
Aimed at making people healthier, the Beijing International Long-Distance Running Festival attracts more and more international participants to Beijing.
Beijing's Top 10 Temple Fairs - Popular at Chinese New Year
Feb.
Traditional temple fairs are an important Chinese custom that are often held around the temples during Chinese New Year (in late January or February).
Many people go to the temple fairs for ritual praying, snacks, and buying crafts. It is a great chance to get close to traditional Chinese culture.
