Winter Solstice is considered as one of the most important traditional festivals in China. More than 2500 years ago, Chinese people observed this by measuring the sun. But what makes it so special on this day? It’s the solstice that marks the onset of winter, at the time of the shortest day and the longest night, about December 22 in the northern hemisphere.

In northern China most people eat dumplings, while in the south people prefer to eat rice dumplings. Though people celebrate in it in different ways, they share the same happiness. Families would get and have a big dinner together.

Winter Solstice gives family a chance to for reunion when the family members far away would come to spend time with their parents and relatives.

On December 21st The Office of International Affairs organised a “Making dumplings”  event to give our foreign teachers a chance to experience one of the most charming Chinese festivals. The teachers thoroughly enjoyed not only in making dumplings but also to taste the hand-made dumplings made by themselves.

      冬至是中国最重要的传统节日之一。早在 2500 年前中国人通过观察大阳测量出了冬至。这一天有什么特殊的呢？答案是在这一天，白天最短，夜晚最长。

 作为一个传统，人们把这一天看得很重并共同庆祝。在北方，大多数人吃饺子，然而在南方人们多吃汤圆。虽然人们以不同的方式在庆祝，但是他们分享同样的喜悦，家人聚集在一起吃饭。冬至让家人有机会团圆，年轻人回家和父母交谈，促进了交流。

 12月21日，国际交流处组织外教开展包饺子活动，让外籍教师们切身体验中国传统节日，感受中国传统节日的魅力。