In China, apples are traditionally given as Christmas gifts, especially on Christmas Eve.
This custom is often described through the term píng’ānguǒ, or “peace apple.” The Mandarin word for apple is píngguǒ, while Christmas Eve is commonly called Píng’ānyè, meaning “peaceful” or “peace night.” The similar sounds help explain why a red apple became a symbolic gift wishing someone peace, safety and good fortune.
The practice is a modern Chinese Christmas custom rather than an ancient religious tradition. It became especially visible in urban areas and among younger people, where Christmas is often celebrated as a social or commercial occasion rather than a nationwide public holiday. Apples may be wrapped in cellophane, decorated with ribbons or printed with messages such as “love” and “peace.”
The fruit is not connected to the biblical Christmas story, and it should not be confused with Western traditions involving oranges, candy or stockings. The appeal comes from Chinese wordplay and auspicious symbolism: red is widely associated with prosperity and good luck, while the apple’s sound evokes peace. Customs vary considerably across China, so not every household exchanges them.