Traditional Culture Encyclopedia - The 24 Solar Terms - What are the vernal equinox customs?

What are the vernal equinox customs?

The vernal equinox is an important solar term in China lunar calendar, usually around March 20th. It marks the official beginning of spring, and people will take this opportunity to celebrate the new beginning and pray for a smooth and bumper harvest in the busy farming season. Here are some customs related to the vernal equinox:

1. Grave-sweeping: The vernal equinox is a traditional day for ancestor-sweeping. People will go to their ancestors' graves, tidy them up and offer flowers, food and drinks to show their respect and yearning for their ancestors.

2. Go for an outing: The vernal equinox is warm and plants germinate, which is an excellent opportunity for an outing. Family, friends and relatives will travel together, choose beautiful parks, mountains or lakes and enjoy the beauty and relaxation of nature.

3. Eat dumplings: dumplings are traditional food in the spring equinox season, symbolizing a new beginning and prosperity. It is a green jiaozi made of glutinous rice flour, which is mostly filled with bean paste, sesame and other fillings. People believe that eating green balls can avoid disasters and protect health and safety.

4. Voluntary tree planting activities: The vernal equinox season is also a good time to plant trees. Many places will organize voluntary tree planting activities, in which people can participate and contribute to environmental protection and greening.

5. Wear new clothes: During the spring equinox, people will buy new clothes and put on new clothes to welcome the new season. This reflects people's yearning and expectation for a new life.

Here are some introductions about the custom of vernal equinox. In this beautiful festival, people can celebrate the arrival of spring in various ways and feel the vitality and hope of nature.