In Chinese culture, `节日` are far more than just days off. They are the primary occasions for family reunion (团圆, tuányuán), a cornerstone of Chinese society. Major traditional festivals like the Spring Festival (春节, Chūnjié) and the Mid-Autumn Festival (中秋节, Zhōngqiūjié) trigger the largest annual human migrations on earth, as people travel across the country to be with their families. Many traditional `节日` are tied to the lunar calendar and agricultural cycles, reflecting China's deep agrarian roots. They often involve specific rituals, foods, and stories passed down through generations. For example, eating mooncakes during Mid-Autumn Festival or dragon boat racing during the Dragon Boat Festival are non-negotiable customs (`习俗, xísú`). Compared to Western holidays, which often focus on religious events (Christmas, Easter) or national history (Independence Day), Chinese `节日` place a heavier emphasis on family, honoring ancestors (e.g., Qingming Festival / Tomb-Sweeping Day), and harmony with nature. While the festive atmosphere is similar, the cultural imperative for family gathering during major `节日` is arguably more pronounced in China than in many Western cultures.
`节日` is a common and versatile word used in everyday conversation.
The connotation is always positive and celebratory. It's used in both formal and informal contexts without much change.