Embracing Start of Autumn: Traditions and tips for the seasonal transition in Dezhou district

[Video provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Start of Autumn, the 13th solar term of the year, began this year on Aug 7 and ends on Aug 21. It marks the end of summer and the beginning of autumn, which is an important time for farmers as the season of harvest approaches.

Despite the arrival of Start of Autumn, the heat of summer persists. The stretch of hot days following this solar term, typically lasting about 30 days, is known as the "Autumn Tiger". In Lingcheng district of Dezhou, Shandong province, it is a tradition to eat cooling fruits like watermelon on the first day of Start of Autumn. This practice helps to dispel summer heat and prevent autumn dryness.

As the mornings and evenings start to cool down, it is also a time to enjoy a variety of delicious foods, particularly meat, to replenish the body's nutrients lost during the summer.

Watch the video to learn more. (Edited by Hu Kaili)