Chinese Festivals: Phrases for Celebrating with Locals
Celebrating Chinese festivals with locals is a unique way to experience the rich culture and traditions of China. Here are some useful phrases to help you join in the festivities, express your wishes, and participate in the activities.

Chinese New Year (春节)
During the Chinese New Year, families come together to celebrate with various traditions and activities. Here are some key phrases:
- Happy New Year!
新年快乐!
Xīnnián kuàilè! - Wishing you prosperity!
恭喜发财!
Gōngxǐ fācái! - Where is the nearest fireworks display?
最近的烟花表演在哪里?
Zuìjìn de yānhuā biǎoyǎn zài nǎlǐ?
Lantern Festival (元宵节)
The Lantern Festival marks the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations, featuring lantern displays and traditional foods.
- Happy Lantern Festival!
元宵节快乐!
Yuánxiāo jié kuàilè! - Where can I see the lanterns?
哪里可以看灯笼?
Nǎlǐ kěyǐ kàn dēnglóng? - Do you have any tangyuan (sweet rice balls)?
你们有汤圆吗?
Nǐmen yǒu tāngyuán ma?
Dragon Boat Festival (端午节)
The Dragon Boat Festival is celebrated with boat races and the eating of zongzi (sticky rice dumplings).
- Happy Dragon Boat Festival!
端午节快乐!
Duānwǔ jié kuàilè! - Where can I watch the dragon boat races?
哪里可以看龙舟比赛?
Nǎlǐ kěyǐ kàn lóngzhōu bǐsài? - I would like to try zongzi.
我想尝尝粽子。
Wǒ xiǎng cháng cháng zòngzi.
Mid-Autumn Festival (中秋节)
The Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for family reunions and moon gazing, often accompanied by eating mooncakes.
- Happy Mid-Autumn Festival!
中秋节快乐!
Zhōngqiū jié kuàilè! - Would you like some mooncakes?
你想要一些月饼吗?
Nǐ xiǎng yào yīxiē yuèbǐng ma? - Is there a place to admire the moon here?
这里有赏月的地方吗?
Zhèlǐ yǒu shǎng yuè de dìfāng ma?