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White Dew, or “Bai Lu” in Chinese, is an ancient festival that marks a significant transition in the Chinese lunar calendar, falling around September 7th to 9th each year. As this poetic name suggests, White Dew symbolizes the change in weather as the late summer heat begins to wane, and the dewdrops on leaves and grass glisten like pearls, reflecting the ethereal beauty of nature. This seasonal shift holds immense cultural and historical importance in China, and celebrating White Dew is deeply rooted in Chinese tradition. It is a time for reflection, gratitude, and anticipation of the upcoming autumn harvest. In this article, we will explore the origins and significance of White Dew in Chinese culture, shedding light on the customs and rituals that make this festival a cherished part of China’s rich heritage.
The Chinese Exclusion Act, enacted in 1923, was a painful manifestation of prejudice, targeting Chinese individuals and families who sought better lives in Canada. It imposed severe restrictions on immigration, effectively separating families and preventing many from realizing their dreams and aspirations on Canadian soil. As we pause to commemorate this milestone, we must also acknowledge the resilience and strength of the Chinese community in Canada. Despite adversity and discrimination, Chinese Canadians have made invaluable contributions to our country, enriching our cultural tapestry and strengthening our social fabric.
The “Great Heat,” or “Da Shu” in Chinese, is one of the 24 solar terms in the traditional Chinese lunisolar calendar. It usually falls around July 23rd to August 7th each year and marks when the summer heat peaks. While the Great Heat is not a significant holiday or festival in China, it is observed and acknowledged as part of the cultural and agricultural calendar. While no substantial celebrations or festivals are associated with the Great Heat, it is part of the broader cultural tapestry that shapes how the Chinese people interact with and appreciate the natural world and the changing seasons.
Hey, how’re you doing? Yeah, that’s right I’m a rabbit. Not just any rabbit, I’m the Moon Rabbit. I live in a palace on the moon, together with a woman named Chang’e, and I help her to make medicine. Oh, why are we here? Well, long story short, Chang’e is Hou Yi’s wife, Hou Yi is the hero who shot down nine out of the ten suns, he received a divine medicine for saving the people from the suns’ scorch, Chang’e ate the divine medicine for some reason – she wanted to hide it from some bad guys, or she wanted longevity, or it was a mistake or something – she then ascended to the moon, and she is very lonely on the moon so I joined her to keep her company. What? That’s a lot to take in? Well, it doesn’t really matter, what’s important is at this time of the year, you get to eat these things called mooncakes. This one is custard, this is egg yolk and lotus paste – oh I love this one – this is durian, even ham and almonds, and savory pork. Oh what, I have to go? Anyway, see you soon, it’s time to take your family out to see the full moon, here are some mooncakes to share, and if you look really hard you might see us up here!