Chinese New Year 2025

Question

Can anyone help finding information on New Year festivities in Haikou this year or in the past ? Are there fireworks /drone shows ? Lion &dragon dances ? Other events ? Any specific streets and temples decorated? Would night markets and restaurants be closed on the 28th ? Would we still be able to catch DiDi and get around ? Am I better off staying in the Haikou Bay 1 area or near Quilou ? We arrive early , any good spots to watch sunrise ?

Answer

Haikou, as the capital of Hainan province, celebrates Chinese New Year with a mix of traditional festivities and modern entertainment. While it is not as large-scale as Beijing or Shanghai, the city still offers vibrant cultural events, street decorations, and festive activities.

Typical Chinese New Year activities in Haikou include:

Fireworks and light shows: Public fireworks are often organized near major city squares and Haikou Bay. Some years also feature drone light shows, particularly around Haikou Bay and Holiday Beach areas.
Lion and dragon dances: These are common around temples, community centers, and shopping streets, often accompanied by drums and gongs. Popular spots include Haikou Old Town, Wugong Temple, and streets near Qilou Old Street.
Decorations: Streets, temples, and shopping areas are decorated with red lanterns, banners, and couplets. Qilou Old Street and Haikou Bay areas are particularly festive and good for evening strolls.
Night markets and food: Most night markets remain open during Chinese New Year, but some restaurants may close for 1–2 days, especially smaller family-run establishments. Popular areas like Haikou Bay 1 and Qilou have more restaurants that cater to tourists and are likely open.
Transportation: DiDi and taxis generally operate during the holiday, though there may be higher demand around popular locations and on the eve of the New Year.

Regarding accommodation areas:

Haikou Bay 1: Offers a modern setting with easy access to waterfront activities, sunrise views, and many hotels and restaurants. Suitable for those who prefer convenience and scenic coastal areas.
Qilou Old Town: Historic charm, traditional architecture, close to cultural events, lion/dragon dances, and street festivities. More atmospheric for those interested in cultural immersion and street-level experiences.

Sunrise spots in Haikou:

Haikou Bay and Holiday Beach – open coastal areas with panoramic sunrise views over the sea.
Xixiu Park – slightly inland but offers elevated views and a quieter setting.

In summary, Haikou offers a combination of fireworks, lion and dragon dances, decorated streets, and vibrant night markets during Chinese New Year. Staying near Haikou Bay 1 is convenient for modern amenities and sunrise views, while Qilou is ideal for experiencing traditional festive atmospheres. Transportation via DiDi remains generally available, though booking slightly earlier may help during peak times.