Dongzhi Festival

The Dongzhi Festival, occurring around December 21-23, marks the winter solstice and the shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. Celebrated primarily in China and other East Asian countries, it signifies the return of longer daylight hours and the renewal of Yin energy. Traditionally, families gather to enjoy special foods like tangyuan (sweet rice balls), symbolizing unity and prosperity. The festival emphasizes familial harmony, the importance of family reunions, and the anticipation of longer days ahead, blending seasonal change with cultural rituals rooted in Chinese philosophy and folk customs.