I am in Wenzhou, located on the east coast, with a long history and rich cultural heritage. The vernal equinox is one of the traditional twenty-four solar terms in China, and it is the solar term that begins in spring. At this time, the sunshine is just right, and the day and night are even. In Wenzhou, the vernal equinox also has some unique customs. Let me introduce them to you.

First, enjoy the flowers

In the vernal equinox, the weather gets warmer and everything on the earth begins to recover, which is a good time for a spring outing. There are many famous flower sea attractions in Wenzhou, such as Yongjia Nantang Flower Sea, Cangnan Yantou Mountain, Ruian Sanshawan, etc. Tourists can enjoy flowers, take photos and pick flowers here and enjoy the beauty of spring.

Second, eat vernal equinox rice

In Wenzhou, there is another important custom of eating vernal equinox rice. Spring equinox rice is a traditional food made of glutinous rice, red dates, sweet-scented osmanthus, peanuts, pine nuts and other ingredients, which symbolizes family reunion and good luck. On the day of the vernal equinox, every household should prepare the vernal equinox rice. In some places, ingredients such as rape blossoms and bacon will be added to the rice, which is more delicious.

Third, to pay homage to ancestors

The vernal equinox is also a traditional day to pay homage to ancestors. People in Wenzhou pay great attention to ancestor worship. On the vernal equinox, they will go to the ancestral graves to worship, burn incense, offer flowers and burn paper to express their thoughts for their ancestors, and pray for their ancestors to bless their families with peace, health and happiness.

Fourth, plant trees to protect the green

The vernal equinox is a good time to plant trees. Wenzhou is a city with a high greening rate. Every year, many communities, schools and enterprises organize voluntary tree planting activities, hoping to increase the greening area for the city, purify the air, beautify the environment and create a good atmosphere for livable cities through tree planting.