Major Cold
Major Cold
Overview
Major Cold is the 24th solar term of the traditional Chinese solar calendar, marking the final phase of winter and the last term in the annual solar calendar. As with other solar terms, Major Cold plays a crucial role in the agricultural calendar and has significant cultural implications. This period is characterized by snow, rain, and icy cold weather, all of which have a considerable impact on people's lives.
Climate and Weather Patterns
During Major Cold, cold currents typically move southward, resulting in very cold weather. Although modern meteorological observations indicate that in some regions of China, Major Cold is not necessarily colder than the previous solar term, Minor Cold, some coastal areas experience the lowest temperatures of the year during this period. These climatic conditions often influence daily activities and agricultural practices.
Health Practices
Eating "Dispelling Cold Cake"
In Beijing, a traditional practice during Major Cold is the consumption of the "dispelling cold cake," a type of rice cake. The main ingredient, sticky rice, contains more sugar than regular rice, providing warmth. The word for "rice cake" in Chinese is homophonous with "higher in a new year," symbolizing good fortune and continual prosperity.
Eating Fried Spring Rolls
In Anqing, Anhui province, a customary food during Major Cold is fried spring rolls, which are made by wrapping meat or vegetables in a thin pancake, then frying them until golden. The spring rolls can have either a sweet or savory taste.
Drinking Stewed Soup
In Nanjing, Jiangsu province, drinking stewed soup is a tradition during Major Cold. Stewed with ingredients like aged hen, ginseng, matrimony vine, and black fungus, the soup is believed to provide warmth and nourishment.
Modern Celebrations and Cultural Activities
During events like the Beijing Design Week, Major Cold, along with other solar terms, has inspired various design works. These works, often displayed in exhibitions, include creations in fields such as food product design, clothing, furniture, cultural products, and digital media, representing themes of life, technology, and traditional crafts. Article reference1. 24 Solar Terms: 6 things you may not know about Major Cold. chinadaily.com.cn. 20242. Creative designs on 24 solar terms showcased at Beijing Design Week. chinaservicesinfo.com. 2018Photo Gallery（2 pictures）CategoriesLifestyleTag24 Solar TermsRelatedLunar CalendarNew Year's GoodsMinor Cold24 Solar TermsCatalogue1. Overview2. Climate and Weather Patterns3. Health Practices4. Modern Celebrations and Cultural Activities- - - []