Winter Solstice
Dec 21–23 · 水 · Water
Typically falls on December 21–23. The shortest day and longest night — yin is at its peak and yang begins its slow return.
Dōngzhì is one of the most important festivals in the Chinese calendar — the year's darkest day is also the moment when light begins to return. Ancient emperors held grand ceremonies at the winter solstice altar. Families eat dumplings and tangyuan (glutinous rice balls) to celebrate the return of yang energy and the promise of spring.
Dumplings (饺子) — in northern China, dumplings for winter solstice. Tangyuan (汤圆) — glutinous rice balls in southern China, symbolizing reunion and the round of heaven. Longan Tea — nourishes blood as the body recovers from the year's deepest darkness.
Story: Dōngzhì was called the 'winter festival' and ranked as one of China's most important celebrations. Emperor's held ceremonies at the winter solstice altar to welcome returning yang. Families across China eat dumplings or tangyuan — the round shape representing the sun's return and family reunion.
Winter Solstice is the year's most yin day — and also the turning point. This is the best time for the year's most nourishing meal. Tangyuan or dumplings are perfect. As yang begins to return, this is also a beautiful time for gentle gratitude and intention-setting for the year ahead.
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