2025 Mid Autumn and National Day Holiday Guide

2025-09-27

As 2025 unfolds, two of China’s most cherished festivals—Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day—will once again bring joy and extended breaks to millions. This year, the double celebration falls in early October, creating a golden opportunity for families to reunite, travelers to explore, and communities to celebrate national pride alongside age-old traditions.

The 2025 holiday schedule, released by China’s General Office of the State Council, combines the two festivals into a consecutive break. Starting on September 30, the holiday will run for 8 days, ending on October 7. To compensate for the extended leave, workers will need to work on Saturday, September 27, and Sunday, October 12. This arrangement balances rest with productivity, allowing ample time for both celebration and travel.

Mid-Autumn Festival, steeped in over 3,000 years of history, centers on family reunions. On the 15th day of the eighth lunar month—October 2 in 2025—families gather to admire the full moon, a symbol of unity and prosperity. Traditional foods like mooncakes, with fillings ranging from sweet red bean to savory salted egg yolk, are shared, while stories of Chang’e, the moon goddess, are told to children. In 2025, the festival’s timing within the long weekend means more people can return to their hometowns, easing the rush that often accompanies shorter breaks.

National Day, marking the founding of the People’s Republic of China on October 1, 1949, adds a layer of patriotic fervor. Cities across the country adorn themselves with red flags, and public spaces host cultural performances, parades, and firework displays. Beijing’s Tiananmen Square, in particular, becomes a focal point, with thousands gathering to watch the flag-raising ceremony at dawn. In 2025, this day falls on a Wednesday, making it the heart of the holiday period, ideal for community events and nationalistic celebrations.

The 8-day window is expected to trigger a travel boom, as it does most years. Domestic tourism hotspots like Huangshan Mountain, Chengdu’s giant panda base, and the ancient city of Xi’an are likely to see record visitors. The China Tourism Academy predicts over 800 million trips during the period, a slight increase from 2024, driven by improved transportation networks and new attractions. For those preferring quieter plans, rural getaways or hometown visits remain popular, offering a chance to escape crowds while honoring traditions.

Transport authorities are gearing up for the surge. High-speed rail networks will add extra trains, airports will extend operating hours, and online booking systems have been upgraded to handle peak demand. To avoid congestion, many travelers opt for “reverse tourism”—visiting less famous destinations—while others choose to explore their own cities through local festivals and exhibitions.

For international travelers, the long break provides a rare chance for overseas trips. Popular destinations include Southeast Asian countries like Thailand and Vietnam, as well as short-haul flights to Japan and South Korea. Visa processing has been streamlined in 2025, making it easier for Chinese tourists to plan international adventures during the holiday.

As with any major holiday, preparation is key. Experts advise booking transportation and accommodation well in advance, especially for popular attractions. Families celebrating Mid-Autumn Festival are encouraged to buy mooncakes early, as premium varieties often sell out quickly. For those staying home, cities will offer a range of activities, from lantern shows to National Day-themed exhibitions, ensuring everyone can partake in the festive spirit.

In 2025, the convergence of Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day is more than just a holiday—it’s a celebration of heritage, unity, and progress. Whether sharing mooncakes with loved ones, watching a flag-raising ceremony, or exploring new horizons, the 8-day break offers something for everyone. As the nation pauses to honor its past and embrace the present, the double festival serves as a reminder of the values that bind Chinese people together: family, community, and national pride.