Winter Solstice

Winter Solstice, which usually happens on December 21st or 22nd, is one of China’s most important traditional festivals. It marks the shortest day and the longest night of the year, and has been celebrated for over 2,000 years.

One of the most popular customs is eating dumplings. In China, dumplings symbolize reunion and abundance, so families often gather together to make and eat dumplings on the Winter Solstice. Another tradition is eating tangyuan, a kind of sweet rice ball with various fillings, which represents family togetherness and happiness.

Besides food, there are other customs to celebrate the Winter Solstice as well. In some areas of China, people take baths with a special herb known as mugwort to promote good health and longevity. Others believe that the day is the turning point of the year and that evil spirits are at their strongest on this day, so they put up red decorations and light candles to ward off bad luck.

Overall, the Chinese Winter Solstice Festival is a time for family reunion, a celebration of the harmony between man and nature, and a moment to prepare for the coming of the new year.