Summer Solstice arrives: Embrace the full bloom of the season

June 21 marks the arrival of the Summer Solstice, the final solar term of the first half of the traditional Chinese calendar. This moment not only signals warmth and humidity but also once held deep cultural significance as an important festival in ancient China.

In ancient times, it was a day of subtle celebration, especially among women and girls, who exchanged small gifts like folding fans – tokens of goodwill meant to bring coolness and good health through the scorching summer days ahead.

Once a beloved folk festival, the Summer Solstice was also a time for family reunions. People would return home to rest and reconnect, gathering over chilled drinks in a tradition known as "xie xia," or "resting in summer," to ward off the heat and embrace the season's slower rhythm.

Today, the spirit of the Summer Solstice lives on through regional food customs that still bring people together. In northern China, noodles take center stage. Echoing the saying, "Dumplings for Winter Solstice, noodles for Summer Solstice," families enjoy wheat noodles to celebrate the harvest of the season. Cold noodle dishes, in particular, offer a refreshing way to beat the heat.

Further south, in the picturesque Jiangnan region – known for its lush landscapes and waterways just south of the Yangtze River – people enjoy delicate pancakes wrapped around seasonal vegetables, tofu, and other fresh fillings. These light yet flavorful dishes embody both a reverence for ancestral traditions and a heartfelt appreciation for the abundance of summer.

Refreshing drinks are a signature of the season. Chilled teas, mung bean soup, and traditional sour plum beverages help beat the heat and keep the body hydrated. Seasonal fruits like watermelon are also summer favorites, offering both sweetness and relief from the swelter. According to traditional health wisdom, it's best to opt for a lighter diet during this time. Bitter ingredients such as bitter gourd, celery and chicory are especially recommended, as they are believed to help clear internal heat and eliminate dampness.

From ancient rituals to modern meals, the Summer Solstice continues to remind us of the simple joys of staying healthy, keeping cool and savoring the gifts of nature.