Christmas is one of the most well-known holidays in the world, and I imagine that you can’t possibly miss seeing the festivities that take place around the globe. While Christmas is not a nationally-recognised holiday in China, we are still able to enjoy holiday celebrations while living in Shanghai.

The first way you can celebrate Christmas is by spending time with family and friends. There is nothing better than being with people you love. No matter how small your family is, or how many friends you have, nothing can surpass being with your loved ones! You can do anything together, such as watching Christmas movies or making Christmas treats. This way, Christmas will be as enjoyable as it would be in your home country.

If you are longing for a Christmas celebration just like you have at home, you can try to retain the Christmas traditions that you usually have in your home country. For example, if you normally have turkey for Christmas, you can find a place to enjoy a nice Turkey dinner in Shanghai. Or, if you are used to making Christmas ornaments, you can continue to do so. Therefore, celebrating Christmas can be an enjoyable experience just like it would be in your home country.

Another way we celebrate Christmas is through the numerous activities at YCIS. Being in a school with a huge tight-knit community, we always participate in activities where teachers, students, and parents can be together. Christmas is no different. Annually, we get into the festive cheer with the Christmas Tree Lighting event. During the event, there is Carol singing, Christmas stands, and many fun opportunities to mingle with peers. It is the perfect time for our school community to bond. Also, before the Christmas break, we always have the long-awaited Christmas parties, where all students can relax after our exam weeks are behind us! Finally, to cap it all off, we have a school ‘Christmas Quiz,’ in which teams of students try to answer various types of questions with a big prize as a reward.

There is no need to hinder yourself from celebrating Christmas in China! It is sure to be just as joyous as celebrating it in your home country. There are unlimited activities to do to get the most out of this wonderful time of the year.

By Jonathan, Year 10, YCIS Pudong Secondary