The Beginning of Spring

A year’s plan begins in spring. Since ancient times, the Beginning of Spring (Lichun) has been a traditional festival.

In Fujian, people have the custom of “eating spring” or “biting spring” on this day. Spring pancakes and spring rolls are the foods that best represent Lichun. They symbolize a good harvest of all crops and express joy in welcoming spring and hope for a plentiful year.

Chunbing (Spring Pancake) ismade by wrapping fillings such as Chinese chives, dried tofu, bean sprouts, and shredded meat in thin pancake skins. When the chunbing is deep-fried, it is called “fried spring,” which also suggests an early and promising start to the new spring.