Beginning of Spring (立春 or Lìchūn) is the first of the 24 Solar Terms in the traditional Chinese lunar calendar and falls on February 4th, 2026. It signifies the beginning of all things and the renewal of life, marking the opening of a new cycle. In traditional belief, it carries auspicious meanings.

In ancient times, Beginning of Spring was an important sacrificial festival as well as a key period for urging farmers to prepare for cultivation. Over time, it evolved into a wide range of folk customs that have been passed down for centuries, including yǎnchūn (spring performances), yíngchūn (welcoming spring), dǎchūn (beating the spring ox), and yǎochūn (biting the spring). During this period of time, temperature, sunlight, and rainfall begin to rise gradually. The land warms, all things start to grow, winter draws to a close, and spring approaches.

On this day, people in China traditionally eat foods that symbolize welcoming spring, renewal, and vitality. Common customs include “yǎochūn”(biting the spring) by eating spring rolls, spring pancakes, and fresh seasonal vegetables such as spring onions and leafy greens. These foods represent the awakening of nature, rising yang energy, and hopes for health and a good harvest. Practices vary by region, but all emphasize harmony with seasonal change rather than lavish celebration.

The renowned Tang dynasty poet, He Zhizhang (贺知章), wrote a famous poem about this day, one that many of us memorized and recited as children: “Ode to the Willow” (《咏柳》)

碧玉妆成一树高，

万条垂下绿丝绦。

不知细叶谁裁出，

二月春风似剪刀。

The willow stands tall, adorned like green jade,

Ten thousand strands hang down like emerald silk ribbons.

Who knows who cut out those slender leaves?

The February spring breeze is as sharp as a pair of scissors.