The winter solstice, the twenty-second of the 24 solar terms, is also one of the traditional Chinese festivals. On this day, the sun shines directly on the Tropic of Capricorn, and the northern hemisphere travels northward, with the shortest days and the longest nights. For this reason, the winter solstice is also known as the "short solstice" or "southern solstice".
In ancient times, the winter solstice was an important festival, and people would hold various celebrations such as sacrifices, prayers, and reunion dinners. And in modern times, the winter solstice, although not as lively as the Spring Festival, is still an important festival.
On the day of the winter solstice, people eat traditional foods such as dumplings, glutinous rice balls, and rice cakes. These foods not only have the effect of keeping warm, but also have a beautiful meaning. For example, dumplings symbolize reunion and harmony, and rice cakes symbolize rising year by year.
Apart from eating traditional food, people also do some traditional activities. For example, in some places, the "ninety-nine cold" activity is held, that is, counting nine from the day of the winter solstice, every nine days is a nine, and when the count reaches ninety-nine eighty-one days, spring comes. In some places, the "Winter Solstice Ancestor Worship" is held, that is, to pay tribute to the ancestors and pray for the safety of the family.
Overall, the winter solstice is an important festival, which is not only an important part of traditional Chinese culture, but also an important time for people to express their affection, friendship and love. On this special day, let's enjoy the food, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and feel the charm of traditional culture together!