Sunday marks the beginning of Xiaohan, or Minor Cold, the 23rd of China’s 24 solar terms. This period signals the arrival of the coldest days of the year, but amidst the chill, the first hints of spring start to emerge.
Running from January 5 to January 19 this year, Minor Cold ushers in a bustling time as Chinese New Year approaches. Families across China dive into preparations for the biggest festival of the year, adorning their homes with Spring Festival couplets, paper cuttings, New Year paintings, lanterns, and firecrackers. Lively folk performances and vibrant temple fairs add to the festive atmosphere.
The third day of Minor Cold coincides with the Laba Festival, celebrated on the eighth day of the twelfth month in the traditional Chinese calendar. It’s a day known for savoring Laba porridge, a hearty dish made by simmering rice, beans, peanuts, red dates, longans, raisins, and other ingredients sweetened with sugar. Sharing a warm bowl of Laba porridge not only warms the body but also brings a sense of familial affection, nostalgia, and joy for the upcoming New Year.
Despite the brisk weather, resilient flowers like plum blossoms, camellias, and daffodils begin to bloom, heralding the arrival of spring even in the harshest winters. As an old Chinese folk song goes, “Minor Cold, Major Cold, another year has passed.”
As we look forward to warmer days, why not embrace the traditions of Minor Cold? Enjoy a comforting bowl of Laba porridge, place a pot of blooming daffodils on your table, and join in the festive preparations to welcome the Chinese New Year with a fresh and joyful start.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
