What are the Spring Equinox Customs in Guangdong?

The spring equinox customs in Guangdong are rich and varied, they are a blend of traditional culture and local characteristics, demonstrating the Guangdong people's love for spring and their expectation for a good harvest. Below is a detailed introduction to Guangdong equinox customs, explanations of their origins and answers to cases of related customs.

Guangdong's spring equinox customs can be traced back to the ancient farming society, where people prayed for a good harvest and blessings through a series of activities. The spring equinox, one of the 24 solar terms in the lunar calendar, usually falls around March 20 every year and marks the official start of spring. On this day, the people of Guangdong hold a variety of celebrations to express their joy for spring and their anticipation for the future.

First of all, Guangdong people will worship their ancestors on the day of the spring equinox. They will tidy up their ancestors' graves, burn paper money, offer food and wine as a sign of respect and remembrance of their ancestors. It is a traditional custom to prepare everything for their ancestors as it is believed that their spirits will return to earth in the spring.

Secondly, the people of Guangdong will hold a blessing ceremony on the day of the spring equinox. They will go to temples or Taoist temples to burn incense and make offerings to pray for peace and health. On this day, many people will choose to visit temples to pray for the blessings of the gods. In addition, some places will hold traditional performances such as lion and dragon dances to celebrate the arrival of spring.

Additionally, the people of Guangdong have another characteristic spring equinox custom, which is to eat spring cakes. Spring cake is a traditional food made of flour and wrapped with various ingredients, such as pork and vegetables. On the day of the spring equinox, people will gather together and taste the spring cakes, symbolizing the beginning of a new year and the hope of a good harvest. The custom of eating spring cakes is very popular in Guangdong, where it is believed that eating spring cakes can bring good luck and good fortune.

Besides the above customs, there are some other extended activities for the spring equinox in Guangdong. For example, some places will hold flower markets where people can buy all kinds of flowers and plants to decorate their homes and courtyards. In addition, some other places will hold traditional folk games, such as stilt walking and playing gyros, so that people can spend the spring equinox festival in joy.

All in all, the spring equinox customs in Guangdong are rich and varied, reflecting people's love for spring and their hope for a good harvest. Through activities such as ancestor worship, blessing ceremonies and eating spring cakes, people express their nostalgia for the past and anticipation for the future. In addition, extended activities such as flower markets and folk games bring joy and entertainment to the people. These customs are not only part of the traditional culture of the Guangdong people, but also their aspiration and pursuit of a better life.