December is here and with it, holiday celebrations around the world. In China, familiar Christmas traditions and decorations abound. While we commonly associate many of these symbols of the holidays with western countries, China incorporates many of these traditional elements into their Christmas decorations–with lavish, beautiful, and occasionally humorous results.
These decorations are so unique, we wanted to share a few pictures of them with you, as well as a glimpse into how BASIS International Schools celebrate the holidays. All pictures are from BASIS International Schools staff and teachers.
Christmas Decorations Around Shenzhen

Season’s Greetings from Shenzhen

A beautiful Christmas display in Shenzhen

Sometimes advertising mixes in with the Christmas decorations
The Occasionally Humorous

Sometimes things don’t quite translate from Mandarin to English, such as in this Starbucks display.

A camel enjoys city life in Shenzhen
Christmas in Hangzhou & Hong Kong

The Cartier Christmas tree in Hangzhou.

Christmas tree at Disneyland Hong Kong

The city of Hong Kong lights up at Christmas time
The Holiday Spirit at BASIS International Schools

BASIS International School Hangzhou displays their lobby Christmas tree

BASIS International School Park Lane Harbour students post their Christmas wishes on the Wish Wall

BASIS International School teachers show off their Christmas sweaters.
No matter the place, decorations, or language, the sentiment of the season is always the same…
Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year!