What does Wu Dong Ding Gui mean?

In the traditional Chinese calendar in China, a year is divided into twelve months, and each month has a name. The coldest three months are called "winter", and the winters in the lunar calendar are October, November and December respectively. In these three months, there are 24 solar terms in each month, which are: beginning of winter, light snow, heavy snow, winter solstice, slight cold and severe cold. Among them, beginning of winter, also known as "Five winters", is the first solar term in winter. The solar terms after five winters are Ding Ling and Guiri. Therefore, the order of solar terms in October of the lunar calendar is "Five winters and Ding Gui".

During the five winters, the temperature drops gradually, which is a sign that southern China enters winter. During this period, there is less rain, which is relatively dry and the temperature is relatively stable. However, with the deepening of winter, the temperature will be lower and lower, and the cold weather will gradually increase. After five winters in the north, cold waves frequently occur and the temperature is extremely low, so it is necessary to strengthen cold-proof and warm-keeping measures.

As the solar term in October of the China lunar calendar, Five winters play an important role in the traditional festivals in China. Beginning of winter is usually used to celebrate the harvest season, but on Ding Ling and Decimal Day, it is a time to appreciate the light and pray for peace. People usually celebrate this festival by hanging lanterns, enjoying the moon and flowers, cooking Yuanxiao and eating glutinous rice. At the same time, in rural areas, this festival is also an important day for sacrificial activities. Every family will worship their ancestors and pray for peace and health.