The Spring Festival, or “Nian,” stands as China's most cherished traditional celebration. In southern Fujian, this vibrant occasion un‐folds with distinctive customs, cultivating a warm and festive atmosphere.
As the festival approaches, local resi‐dents immerse themselves in a thorough house cleaning. This ritual aims to sweep away the misfortune of the old year, ushering in bounti‐ful fortune for the upcoming year. Alongside cleaning, they prepare special delicacies, such as “Runbing.” This delectable pancake, akin to spring rolls but with a thinner, more resilient wrapper, is filled with carrots, seaweed, pea‐nuts, and crispy flakes. The dish embodies a rich, layered taste of home and the jubilantspirit of the New Year.
The dinner on Chinese New Year's Eve serves as a highlight of the festivities. In addi‐tion to fish, a special type of clam often adorns the table. In the Minnan dialect, the word for “clam” sounds similar to “prosperous,” turn‐ing it into a symbol of a flourishing life and op‐timal health. After dinner, families stay up late to bid a heartfelt farewell to the old year and warmly welcome the new.
On the first day of the new year, people don their finest attire and visit relatives and friends. They greet each other with “Gong Xi Fa Cai” (wishing you prosperity) in the Min‐nan dialect and exchange “hongbao,” red enve‐lopes filled with the love and blessings of theolder generation for the younger.
Throughout the festival, traditional folk activities abound. One standout performance is the “Chest-Patting Dance,” a unique local ex‐pression of joy. Dancers rhythmically pat their bare chests, accompanied by lively Nanyin mu‐sic. This spirited dance showcases the enthusi‐asm of the local residents, infusing the festive atmosphere with cheer.
In southern Fujian, the Spring Festival is not merely a time for family reunion; it also serves as a precious opportunity to pass on trea‐sured traditions. The celebration disseminates the region's unique cultural heritage and val‐ues, leaving lasting memories etched in the hearts of all who partake.