Major Cold 大寒
Dahan, or Major Cold, is the coldest solar term, when the chill peaks. Though the world is frozen, it also signals that winter is ending and spring is near. People busily sweep away the old and prepare goods for the coming New Year.
Hens begin to layFirst pentad
Raptors fly high and swiftSecond pentad
Ponds freeze solidThird pentad
Three pentads
- First pentadHens begin to layHens start hatching chicks; even in the deepest cold, new life is on its way.
- Second pentadRaptors fly high and swiftHawks and other birds of prey fly high and fierce, hunting hard to survive the cold.
- Third pentadPonds freeze solidLakes and rivers freeze solid right to the middle, the coldest point of the year.
Custom
Eat glutinous rice and sweep away the old for the New Year.
Start dates
- January 20, 2025
- January 20, 2026
- January 20, 2027