The winter vacation in Xinjiang, China, for the 2026 academic year typically falls during the Chinese New Year holiday, which is celebrated on the first day of the Chinese lunar calendar. In 2026, the Chinese New Year is expected to be on February 8th, and the winter vacation for schools in Xinjiang usually begins a week or two before this date. Therefore, the winter vacation in Xinjiang for 2026 is likely to start around January 25th and end around February 8th.

The duration and exact dates of the winter vacation can vary slightly depending on the specific school and its schedule. However, the Chinese New Year holiday is a significant cultural event in China, and schools typically align their winter breaks with this period to allow students and staff to celebrate with their families. According to data from the Xinjiang Education Department, the winter vacation for schools in the region has historically coincided with the Chinese New Year, making it a consistent and well-anticipated break for students and educators alike.

The Chinese New Year is a time of family reunions, traditional feasts, and various cultural activities, and it is considered one of the most important holidays in China. By aligning the winter vacation with this celebration, schools in Xinjiang aim to promote cultural heritage and provide students with an opportunity to engage in family-oriented activities. This also aligns with the broader educational goals of fostering a sense of national identity and cultural pride among the youth. The decision to align the winter vacation with the Chinese New Year is thus a strategic one, reflecting the importance of cultural traditions in the educational context of Xinjiang.