清明节英语介绍
Introduction
Clear and Bright Festival, also known as Qingming Festival, is an important traditional Chinese festival. It falls on the 15th day after the Spring Equinox, usually in early April. This festival is a time for Chinese people to remember and honor their ancestors by sweeping graves, offering food, burning incense and paper money, and performing other funeral rites. It is also a time for spring outings, flying kites, and enjoying the spring scenery.
Origin and History
The origins of Qingming Festival can be traced back to ancient China, more than 2,500 years ago. It was originally a day for spring plowing and offering sacrifices to ancestors. However, during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), it gradually evolved into a solemn occasion for honoring the dead. Since then, this festival has been observed by Chinese people all over the world.
Traditions and Customs
On Clear and Bright Festival, Chinese people usually start the day by visiting graves and offering sacrifices to their deceased relatives. They clean and sweep the graves, offer food, fruits, flowers, and burn incense and paper money. It is believed that the offerings would bring good luck and blessings to both the living and the dead. In addition, some people also plant trees or flowers around the graves as a way of showing respect for the environment.
Aside from the solemn rituals, Qingming Festival is also a time for joy and happiness. Many people take advantage of the good weather to go on spring outings, fly kites, or participate in other outdoor activities. They enjoy the blossoming flowers, singing birds, and warm sunshine, while expressing their love and gratitude for nature and life. In some places, people also hold dragon boat races, tug-of-war contests, or other folk games to celebrate the festival.
Food and Drinks
Like most Chinese festivals, Qingming Festival is closely associated with special foods and drinks. One of the most famous Qingming Festival foods is Qingtuan, a type of rice ball made of glutinous rice and stuffed with sweet bean paste or other fillings. These green-colored rice balls symbolize the greenness and vitality of spring. Other popular foods include crispy cakes, spring rolls, and wheat gluten balls. As for drinks, many people like to drink chrysanthemum tea on this day, which is believed to have a cooling and cleansing effect on the body.
Conclusion
Clear and Bright Festival is a time-honored tradition in Chinese culture, which reflects people's respect for their ancestors, love for nature, and joy of life. It is an occasion for solemn rituals, joyful outings, delicious foods, and heartwarming family gatherings. Whether you are a Chinese or a foreigner, Qingming Festival is a great opportunity to learn more about Chinese culture and experience the rich diversity of this ancient civilization.
