Brrr! ❄️ Major Cold is Here – Let’s Celebrate!
Hey there, winter lovers! Have you ever wondered how people in China celebrate the coldest days of the year? Let’s explore the exciting time called Major Cold (pronounced “Dà Hán” in Chinese), which is all about chilly fun and getting ready for the Chinese New Year! 🎉
What is Major Cold?
Major Cold is the 24th and last solar term in the traditional Chinese calendar. Solar terms are like nature’s calendar, telling us about the changes in seasons. Major Cold usually starts around January 20 and ends on February 2. It’s called “Major Cold” because it’s the coldest time of the year in many parts of China. ❄️🌨️
Ice Harvesting Magic in Harbin
In ancient times, people used to cut huge blocks of ice from rivers during Major Cold and store them underground to keep things cool in summer – like ancient refrigerators! Today, this cool tradition continues, especially in Harbin, a city in northeastern China famous for its Harbin Ice and Snow World. 🏰✨
Every year, workers cut massive ice blocks from the frozen Songhua River. These ice blocks are used to build incredible ice sculptures and buildings for next year’s ice festival. Imagine a whole city made of ice that lights up at night – it’s like a real-life fairy tale! 🏰❄️
Winter Fun and Games
Major Cold is the perfect time to enjoy winter sports. Across China, kids and adults go skiing, ice skating, sledding, and even ice biking! Have you ever tried ice biking? It’s like riding a bike on a frozen lake – super cool! 🚴♂️❄️
Getting Ready for the Chinese New Year
Even though it’s chilly outside, Major Cold is filled with warm excitement because it’s time to prepare for the Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival. This year, the Chinese New Year falls on January 29, right in the middle of Major Cold. 🧧🌟
Families start cleaning their homes to sweep away any bad luck and make space for good fortune. They decorate with red lanterns, hang up shiny banners called spring couplets, and buy beautiful flowers. Red is a lucky color in China, symbolizing happiness and good luck. 🔴🎈
Family Time and Festive Traditions
On New Year’s Eve, families come together for a big, delicious dinner. It’s a special time to reunite and enjoy yummy traditional foods like dumplings and sticky rice cakes. Do you have any favorite family dishes? 🍲🥟
People also set off fireworks and firecrackers to scare away evil spirits and welcome the new year with a bang! The sky lights up with colors, and everyone cheers. 🎆🎇
Welcoming the Warmth
As the saying goes, “After Major Cold, it’s a new year.” Even though it’s the coldest time, we know that spring is just around the corner. Let’s enjoy the snow and ice while it lasts and look forward to the blooming flowers of spring. 🌷🌼
Let’s Celebrate Together!
So, bundle up, enjoy some hot cocoa, and maybe try making a paper lantern or learning more about Chinese New Year traditions. How do you celebrate the winter season? Share with your friends and family, and let’s all welcome the new year with joy and warmth! 🥳❤️
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
