As February 7, 2024 approaches, households across China are excitedly buzzing as they prepare for the 28th day of the 12th lunar month festival. This auspicious day marks the beginning of the final countdown to the Chinese New Year, and traditions abound as families engage in time-honoured practices to welcome good fortune into their homes.
In celebration of the 28th day of the twelfth lunar month, a myriad of festive activities unfold. From kneading dough for traditional delicacies to adorning homes with vibrant decorations, these cherished customs mark the countdown to the upcoming Chinese New Year. Join us on a journey through the cultural richness and joyous preparations that define this auspicious day.
Kneading Dough
One charming folk rhyme that echoes through households on this day is "On the 28th of the twelfth month, knead the dough." It's a symbolic custom, as families roll up their sleeves to prepare essential staple foods for the upcoming festivities. The rhythmic sound of hands kneading dough fills kitchens, echoing the heartbeat of tradition that has been passed down through generations.
Crafting Delicacies
Another delightful custom encourages households to create delectable treats like cakes and steamed buns adorned with flowers. These culinary creations serve as delicious snacks and tangible expressions of good wishes for the coming year. The traditional custom of crafting these intricately decorated delights is a usual family activity, bringing families together in the spirit of anticipation.
Posting Spring Festival Couplets
The phrase "On the 28th of the twelfth month, make cakes and steamed buns adorned with flowers" takes on a dual meaning. Beyond the culinary realm, families engage in decoration, transforming their homes into vibrant expressions of joy. "Adorning with flowers" extends beyond literal blooms to include the placement of New Year paintings, couplets, and window clings.
The character "福," meaning blessings, takes centre stage in these decorations. Families meticulously paste this symbol in varying sizes on doors, walls, and lintels, creating a visual tapestry of hopes for a happy life. Each stroke of the brush carries the weight of tradition and the optimism for a prosperous future, making these decorations both aesthetically pleasing and emotionally significant.
As the 28th day of the 12th lunar month arrives, Chinese households are immersed in a beautiful tapestry of tradition and hope. From the rhythmic kneading of dough to the artistic adornment of homes with symbols of prosperity, this festival encapsulates the essence of familial bonds and cultural heritage. As we embrace the customs associated with this special day, let us reflect on the beauty of continuity, where the past weaves seamlessly into the present, creating a rich fabric that binds us together. With each cake adorned with flowers and every "福" symbol carefully placed, we step into the New Year with hearts full of optimism, ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges.
Click here to explore a series of Lunar New Year Essentials. From traditional snacks to festive decorations, find everything you need to ring in the Year 2024 with abundance and joy.
Shop now!
