In the People's Republic of China,
December 25 is not a legal holiday. However, it is still designated as a
public holiday in China's special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau, both former colonies of Western powers with (nominal) Christian cultural heritage.
In the mainland, the small percentage of Chinese citizens who consider themselves Christians unofficially, and usually privately, observe Christmas. Many other individuals celebrate Christmas-like festivities even though
they do not consider themselves Christians. Many customs, including
sending cards, exchanging gifts, and hanging stockings are very similar
to Western celebrations. Commercial Christmas decorations, signs, and other symbolic items have
become increasingly prevalent during the month of December in large
urban centres of mainland China, reflecting a cultural interest in this
Western phenomenon, and, sometimes, retail marketing campaigns as well.
In Hong Kong, where Christmas is a public holiday and a major retail period, many buildings facing Victoria Harbour will be decked out in Christmas lights. Christmas trees are found in major malls and other public buildings, and in some homes as well, despite the small living area. Catholics in Hong Kong can attend Christmas Mass.
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