Kaifeng's most famous annual event is the Chrysanthemum Cultural Festival, held throughout October when the city's parks and public spaces fill with chrysanthemum displays. The flower has been associated with Kaifeng for over a thousand years — the Song emperors cultivated chrysanthemums as a symbol of autumn refinement, and the modern festival maintains the tradition on a grand scale. October is consequently the busiest month; book accommodation in advance.
Spring (April to May) is pleasant for visiting outdoor sites without crowds. Summer is hot and can be humid, but the evening food markets are most lively in warm weather. Winter is cold and often grey; many outdoor sites are less appealing but never entirely closed.