Solar term清明节
Qingming is a time to remember ancestors and care for family graves. Spring outings also form part of the season.
Story & background
Qingming combines remembrance of ancestors with the arrival of spring. The solar term has long marked a practical seasonal turning point, while family grave care gives the day its emotional centre. In many places, a quiet spring outing follows the remembrance activities, joining memory with new growth.
Customs
- Care for a family grave or remember relatives in a personal way.
- Follow local rules at cemeteries and memorial sites.
- Take a quiet spring outing after the remembrance activities.
Festival food
Qingtuan (青团, qīngtuán) and other green seasonal foods are associated with some regions, but menus are not universal.
Try this
Ask how a family observes Qingming before joining in, and learn the phrase 请节哀 (qǐng jié'āi) for a respectful condolence.
Dates in this guide
2026: 2026-04-05 · 2027: 2027-04-05 · 2028: 2028-04-04
Useful word踏青a spring outing