Guide to Chinese Festivals Celebrated with Flowers
Chinese culture is rich in traditions and festivals, many of which incorporate the beauty and symbolism of flowers. Here's a look at some key festivals where flowers play a significant role.
1. Spring Festival (Chinese New Year)
Date: Varies (usually between January 21 and February 20)
The Spring Festival marks the beginning of the lunar new year and is celebrated with abundant floral displays. Flowers such as peonies and narcissus are particularly favoured, symbolising prosperity and good fortune. Red flowers, like hibiscus, are prevalent, as red is a colour associated with happiness and luck. Floral arrangements are commonly placed in homes to invite positive energy and blessings for the upcoming year.
2. Lantern Festival
Date: 15th day of the first lunar month (usually in February)
The Lantern Festival signifies the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations. During this festival, families gather to admire lantern displays and eat tangyuan (sweet rice balls). Flower markets come alive with vibrant blooms, particularly jasmine and peach blossoms, which are traditionally linked to love and romance. Creating floral lanterns from fresh blossoms enhances the festive atmosphere, while their fragrant aromas add to the celebration.
3. Qingming Festival (Tomb-Sweeping Day)
Date: April 4 or 5
Qingming Festival is a time for paying respect to ancestors. Families visit gravesites, tending to the graves and offering food and flowers as a sign of remembrance. Common flowers include chrysanthemums, which symbolise mourning but also represent endurance and resilience. It is customary to bring bright, fresh flowers to honour loved ones and celebrate their lives while ensuring the beauty of nature surrounds these solemn moments.
4. Dragon Boat Festival
Date: 5th day of the 5th lunar month (usually in June)
This festival commemorates the poet Qu Yuan, and rice dumplings (zongzi) are traditionally consumed. Flowers, particularly calamus and mugwort, are hung at doorways to ward off evil spirits and promote health. Flower wreaths can be made with these herbs and flowers, symbolising protection and strength. The vibrant colours of seasonal blooms also represent the excitement and energy of the races.
5. Mid-Autumn Festival
Date: 15th day of the eighth lunar month (usually in September)
The Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for reunion and gratitude. Families gather to appreciate the full moon and share mooncakes. Flowers, especially osmanthus, are significant during this celebration as they symbolise love and prosperity. Floral displays are often set up to enhance gatherings, while garlands made from osmanthus can infuse the atmosphere with their sweet fragrance, complementing the evening's beauty.
6. Chongyang Festival (Double Ninth Festival)
Date: 9th day of the ninth lunar month (usually in October)
Chongyang Festival is dedicated to longevity and honouring senior citizens. It is customary to climb mountains and enjoy chrysanthemum tea. Chrysanthemums are the standout flower of this festival, representing life and vitality. The flower's association with health and longevity makes it a popular choice for gifting and decor, symbolically wishing longevity upon loved ones.
HK florist tips
Chinese festivals are enriched by the presence of flowers, which often carry deep meanings and enhance the celebratory nature of these events. Incorporating floral arrangements into your celebrations not only adds beauty but also connects tradition and sentiment, reflecting the profound significance of nature in Chinese culture.
