Winter Solstice (冬至) and a Birthday

21 DEC 2008

What is Winter Solstice (冬至) ? Well, the seasonal significance of winter solstice is the reversal of the gradually lengthening nights and shortening days. Worldwide interpretation of this event varies greatly from culture to culture, but many cultures regard this day as a day of gatherings, festivals, holidays, rituals, or other celebrations around this time. More about Winter Solstice can be read here and here.

It has been awhile since we celebrated the Chinese version of Winter Solstice (冬至) with the eating of TāngYuán (湯圓). I think it must have been over a decade… TāngYuán are glutinous balls made from glutinous rice flour and is usually served warm. There are a few varieties including those with no filling, or those with fillings such as red bean paste, sesame paste, creamy or even crunchy peanuts paste.

TāngYuán (湯圓) - glutinous rice balls

More importantly, the eating of TāngYuán really symbolises reunion and the elders say it also signifies that one is now another year older!!

Happy Birthday Bro!

So like… if one’s birthday (like my brother’s) falls on Winter Solstice… does it mean Age +2? Muwahahaa… Not funny… I know hehehe… Anyway, have a Happy Birthday brother, and may your year ahead be filled with many wonderful returns!!