The Qingming Festival is usually celebrated with a three⁃day national holiday, whose name originates(起源) from the saying "Plants start to revive(复活) and prosper at Qingming in a clean and bright way." Thus, the festival is called Qingming, which means "clean and bright". Tomb sweeping is aimed at commemorating family ancestors, while going on a spring outing allows everyone the chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery and enjoy the season.
Traditional customs
Tomb sweeping. On this day, the whole family gathers in front of their ancestral tombs. They offer fruit and wine to their ancestors and clear the weeds from around the tomb. Finally, they kowtow and pray, hoping for their ancestors' blessing for the rest of the year.
Spring outings. The time around the Qingming Festival is one of the most suitable seasons for a spring outing, as plants are thriving and flowers are blooming. People can have a great time outdoors with their friends and family.
Traditional food
Qingtuan is a green rice ball tiny enough to fit into your hand. It is a mixture of sticky rice powder and green vegetable juice. Stuffed(装满) with sweetened bean paste, Qingtuan tastes sweet with the fresh fragrance of Aicao, a green spring vegetable. In celebration of Qingming, people from Shaanxi make steamed buns known as Huamo, which are made into different shapes. Some are for peaceful family life, while others represent(象征) the wish for health.
A. Each different look brings a good blessing. B. The tradition of tomb sweeping originates from the Qin Dynasty. C. The two main activities over the festival include tomb sweeping and going on a spring outing. D. Family members gather together to celebrate and taste the food. E. Playing football and flying kites are popular activities. F. Many traditional customs are practiced to show respect for our ancestors. G. It is popular in Jiangnan. |
