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Lawmakers propose more public holidays
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2005-03-07 10:33
Two lawmakers have proposed more public holidays in China to remind the
younger generation of the value of their traditional culture amid increasing
popularity of western holidays.
Huo Fuhua and Chen Xuexi, both Guangdong-based deputies to the 10th National
People's Congress, said Sunday that the people in China should be given at least
one day off on some important occasions that have been cherished since ancient
times.
They suggest an extra day off on the eve of the Chinese New Year, or the
traditional Spring Festival as it is often referred to, the Dragon Boat Festival
which falls on the May 5th of the Chinese lunar calendar and the Mid-Autumn
Festival on the 15th dayof the eighth lunar month.
The latter two occasions are less celebrated among the youths these days,
compared with the Valentine's Day and Christmas, said the deputies.
On the Dragon Boast Festival, Chinese traditionally wrap up glutinous rice
with bamboo leaves to commemorate a patriotic poet who had drowned himself more
than 2,000 years ago. The Mid-Autumn Festival is a popular family holiday
featuring the full moon and tasty pastries.
The two deputies said China may also consider a day off for theLantern
Festival on the 15th day of the Lunar New Year, the Clear and Bright Day in
early April, an occasion to mourn their dear departed, and the Double Ninth
Festival, a holiday for the elderlyon the ninth day of the ninth lunar month.
"Most of these holidays are honored and widely celebrated in Hong Kong and
Taiwan to carry forward ancient culture and traditions," acknowledged Huo.
At present, the Chinese are allowed to take a day off on Jan. 1and a week off
on each of the three more essential holidays: the Chinese Lunar New Year, the
Labor Day beginning May 1 and the National Day starting from Oct. 1.
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