Major Snow, the 21st solar term among the 24 traditional solar terms in China, is generally on December 6 to 8, when the sun reaches 255 degrees celestial longitude.

Major Snow marks the start of mid-winter, from now on temperatures will drop significantly and the chances of snow will become higher. Most parts of China have entered the cold winter, with the lowest temperature in some northern areas dropping to 0℃ or below, while it is still sunny in the south.

There is a saying, "A timely snow promises a good harvest". If there is a very heavy snow during Major Snow, it is a sign that the next year will be a harvest year. Snow covers farmland in winter, which keeps the temperature of ground from getting too cold, providing a good overwintering environment for crops such as winter wheat. At the same time, it can freeze some pests on the soil surface and reduce crops diseases.

As the weather gets colder, people start to eat some warm and nourishing food. Every winter, in most parts of northern China, people will eat a steaming bowl of mutton soup to withstand the cold. In some parts of the south, families are busy preserving various kinds of food.

As the saying goes, “Pickling vegetables in Minor Snow, and preserving meat in Major Snow”. At this time, the weather is cold and dry, which provides good conditions for curing preserved meat. In some areas, short bamboo strips or thin ropes are used to hang and dry preserved meat, which symbolizes people's expectation for a thriving and prosperous year.

Making cured meat and lap cheong, the “New Year’s Flavor” is brewing, and people are looking forward to the arrival of the Spring Festival. (Editors: Christine, Amy)