Western festivals gain ever-increasing popularity in China. A growing number of people in China are immersed in the thrilling atmosphere of the upcoming Christmas. In comparison with the Spring Festival, the equally high status is given to Christmas by some of them.
There are a variety of factors contributing to this craze (trend). First, younger age groups are exposed to western culture and lifestyles through learning English. And festivals are regarded as the highlight of western culture. For example, Valentine's Day provides a vehicle for young adults to show their love. Second, the advancement of economy enables Chinese people to possess increased purchasing power. They are heavily targeted by businessmen, who view foreign festivals as golden opportunities to make money. So they desperately try to boost the atmosphere of foreign festivals.
The necessity of celebrating these foreign festivals is widely questioned. People involved are to blame for their loose traditional values. Our home-grown festivals play crucial roles in Chinese traditional culture. However, their foreign counterparts are exerting strong influence on people's values and thoughts. There is no doubt that we should give our priority to Chinese traditional festivals.
