The Dongzhi Festival, also known as the Winter Solstice Festival, is a traditional Chinese celebration marking the shortest day and longest night of the year, typically falling on or around December 21st or 22nd.

Rooted in the ancient philosophy of yin and yang, the festival signifies the turning point when days start to become longer, symbolizing increased positivity and light. Families gather to enjoy special foods such as tangyuan (glutinous rice balls) in southern China, representing unity and prosperity, or dumplings in northern China, traditionally eaten to ward off the cold. Dongzhi also serves as a time for honoring ancestors and celebrating renewal as winter deepens.