What Do People in China Have to Eat at Christmas Time?
Christmas celebrations vary around the world, and no single aspect of Christmas is more diverse around the globe than food. In China, foods eaten at Christmastime depend on the family, their religious beliefs, their geographic location and other factors.
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About Christmas in China
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Christmas is becoming more popular in China each year, although it pales in comparison to the Chinese New Year. Attendance at Christmas Mass has risen in recent years, and Christmas decorations are most commonly seen in large urban areas. Only a very small number of Chinese are Christian; however, Christmas is gaining a foothold there as a commercial holiday.
Celebrations Catering to Western Tourists
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For the Western tourists visiting China during late December, many of the larger hotels and restaurants offer a "traditional" spread, which often includes a roasted turkey, other roasted animals such as beef, vegetable side dishes, and hot rolls.
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Christmas Treats
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Christmas cookies, peppermint drops and other Western Christmas treats are also available throughout China during December. Most often these can be found at department stores, supermarkets and bakeries.
Fruit for Good Fortune
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It is common to see bowls of fruit, most often tangerines and oranges, on display during Christmas. These fruits symbolize wealth and good luck.
Festival Foods
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In general, the Chinese who do celebrate Christmas choose to eat foods that are common during every other Chinese festival. One of the most popular Christmas foods among the population is dumplings. Elsewhere in China, Peking Duck might be enjoyed as well.
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