Sep.19.2024
The Qingming Festival, also known as the Tomb-Sweeping Day, Greening Festival, Pure Brightness Festival, and Ancestor Memorial Day, falls between April 4th and 6th each year. It is a festival for worshipping, honoring ancestors, and sweeping tombs.
The Qingming Festival originated from ancient ancestor beliefs and spring rituals, encompassing both natural and cultural significance. It serves as both a solar term marking a seasonal change and a traditional holiday.
Traditional customs:
Tomb-Sweeping Tomb-sweeping during Qingming, also known as "grave worship," is a way of paying respect to ancestors and has a long-standing tradition.
Eating Qingtuan (Green Dumplings) Qingtuan is a traditional snack commonly consumed during the Qingming Festival, with a history of over 1000 years. In ancient times, people made Qingtuan mainly for sacrificial offerings. Nowadays, it has become one of the most popular foods during Qingming. Eating Qingtuan on this day symbolizes a sweet and prosperous life.
Outing (Taqing) The Qingming Festival falls at the transition between mid-spring and late spring, when the spring scenery is at its peak, making it an ideal time for outings. People not only sweep tombs but also enjoy leisure activities in the countryside with family members of all ages.
Flying Kites Flying kites during Qingming is a widespread tradition enjoyed by both children and adults. In ancient times, people believed that flying kites not only served as entertainment but also had magical properties, bringing good luck.
Planting Willow Branches The custom of planting willow branches is said to commemorate the agricultural deity Shennong. Willow branches can take root and grow easily, symbolizing vitality and resilience. During outings, people often pick a few willow branches to play with or weave into hats to wear. They can also take them home to plant above doors or eaves, symbolizing protection against diseases.
