On April 5, 2026, people in China and across the Chinese cultural world will celebrate the Ching Ming Festival, also called Tomb-Sweeping Day. This special day is about remembering loved ones, showing respect to ancestors, and welcoming the fresh energy of spring.

Families visit graves to clean and tidy them, offer flowers and food, and burn incense and paper offerings. After paying their respects, many enjoy a meal together at the gravesite, turning the day into a chance for family bonding.

Ching Ming is also a time for enjoying the outdoors. With pleasant spring weather, people often go hiking or fly kites near the cemeteries, another traditional activity.

Food plays an important role too. In areas south of the Yangtze River, people eat green rice balls called Qingtuan, made with glutinous rice and fresh herbs, sometimes filled with red bean paste or egg yolk. Fried dough twists, or Sanzi, are also popular, with recipes varying across regions.