The traditional Chinese solar calendar divides the year into 24 solar terms. Major Snow (Chinese:大雪; Pinyin: dà xuě), the 21st solar term of the year, begins this year on Dec 7 and ends on Dec 21.

During Major Snow, the snow accumulates as it falls. Therefore, the Major Snow solar term does not mean that there is more snowfall, but that there is accumulated snow.

Some people look forward to more snowfall, "this year the wheat is covered in three layers of snow, next year farmers will sleep on a pillow made of steamed buns."

Customs of Major Snow

When the Major Snow solar term arrives, every household is busy pickling "salty goods." Add large amounts of salt, star anise, cinnamon, Sichuan peppers, and sugar to a pot and fry until cooked. After cooling down, apply the spices to the inside and outside of fish, meat, and poultry, kneading repeatedly until the color of the meat turns from fresh red to dark red. Then, put the remaining spices and the meat into a jar, press them down with a stone, and place it in a cool, shaded place. After half a month, take the meat out, boil the soy sauce in a pot with water, then pour it into the jar with dried poultry and meat. After ten days, take the fish, meat, and poultry out and hang them in the sun to dry.

During Major Snow, the water in the river freezes, and people can enjoy ice skating and playing. Ice skating is one of the winter games, also known as "ice play" in ancient times. In the northern regions where it is extremely cold, ice skating is most popular as the rivers freeze solid. People wear ice skates and glide on the ice with light and agile movements. Those with advanced skills can perform various tricks.

Major Snow is a good time to take dietary supplementation, it can improve the body's immune function, promote metabolism, and alleviate the phenomenon of cold intolerance. Citrus fruits are abundant in the market before and after the Major Snow, and eating citrus fruits appropriately can prevent and treat rhinitis, and relieve cough and phlegm.