According to historical records, since the pre-Qin period, the Laba Festival has been established for the worship of ancestors and deities. On this day, people pray for a bountiful harvest and prosperity of people and livestock. Traditionally, this day also signals the approach of the "New Year", and every household begins to "busy themselves with the New Year". People start to write couplets, cut paper decorations for windows, go to the market to buy New Year paintings, colored lanterns, firecrackers, incense, and candles, and gradually prepare to celebrate the Spring Festival. There is a popular saying among the people, "Children, children, don't be greedy, after Laba Festival comes the New Year."

Customs of the Laba Festival

Drinking Laba Porridge

The history of drinking Laba porridge in our country has a history of more than a thousand years. People often start preparing the night before, and by the morning of Laba, the porridge is ready to be enjoyed by the family or given as gifts to neighbors. The sharing of warm porridge is a continuation of warmth and affection.

Lilies symbolize "harmony and beauty", longans represent "unity and togetherness", chestnuts signify "great luck and profit", and walnuts stand for "happiness of the whole family". There are also glutinous rice, red beans, sweet dates, peanuts, and more. The rich ingredients of Laba porridge express people's aspirations for a good life.

Soaking Laba Garlic

In the north, this day is a good time to soak Laba garlic. Garlic cloves are peeled, soaked in aged vinegar, sealed, and left to infuse. On New Year's Eve, when the jar is opened again, you can witness the magic of time: the garlic cloves are like jade, and the vinegar is infused with the aroma of garlic, making it an excellent match for dumplings.

Sun-drying Laba Tofu

In the south, some families make Laba tofu. Round pieces of tofu are coated with a layer of saltwater, a small hole is dug in the middle and filled with salt, and then left to dry under the gentle sunlight. The salt permeates the tofu, creating an unforgettable taste of home.