Xiaonian

Today marks the traditional Chinese festival of Xiaonian in the north, a special day steeped in rich cultural heritage and folk customs. Xiaonian, which originates from ancient people's reverence for fire, serves as a sacrificial festival, witnessing the long history of the Chinese nation and its awe for nature.

In the north, on the day of Xiaonian, every household engages in a solemn and sacred ritual—sacrificing to the Kitchen God. People believe that the Kitchen God will ascend to heaven on this day to report on the virtues and vices of humankind to the Jade Emperor. Therefore, through offerings and prayers, they hope to receive the Kitchen God's blessing, anticipating a bountiful harvest and family peace in the coming year. Meanwhile, preparing for the new year's goods and cleaning the house have also become indispensable traditional activities during Xiaonian, symbolizing bidding farewell to the old and ushering in the new, embracing the arrival of the Spring Festival with a fresh look. 

China's vast territory naturally gives rise to diverse customs associated with Xiaonian. Besides the common rituals of sacrifice and cleaning in the north, some regions also boast unique customs such as paper-cutting for window decorations, haircuts, bathing, and tasting Kitchen God candy. Paper-cutting, adorning doors and windows with exquisite paper-cut art, symbolizes good fortune and prosperity; haircuts and bathing symbolize washing away the dust and fatigue of the year, welcoming the new year with a renewed appearance; and eating Kitchen God candy is not only a treat for the taste buds but also carries people's wishes for a sweet life. 

Xiaonian, as the prelude to the Spring Festival, not only carries people's beautiful aspirations for the future but also offers a profound experience and inheritance of traditional culture. On this special day, let us share the warmth and joy that spring from the bottom of our hearts, jointly embracing a Spring Festival filled with hope and happiness.