Tomb Sweeping Day in Taiwan

Tomb Sweeping Day, also known as Qingming Festival, is an important traditional Chinese holiday observed in Taiwan, usually falling on April 4th or 5th of the Gregorian calendar. It's a day dedicated to honoring ancestors by tidying their gravesites.

History

The origins of Tomb Sweeping Day date back to ancient China, with a history of over 2,500 years. It is said to have originated from the Spring and Autumn Period and was initially linked to Hanshi Day (Cold Food Day), when fire was avoided, and only cold food consumed. The festival became associated with grave-sweeping during the Tang Dynasty.

Traditions

On this day, Taiwanese families visit the cemeteries where their ancestors rest. The common customs include:

• Cleaning the Tombs: Clearing weeds, removing dirt, and sweeping away debris.
• Offerings: Presenting food, tea, wine, chopsticks, joss paper accessories (paper money), and other items.
• Incense and Paper Burning: Lighting incense sticks and burning paper offerings as a way to send goods and money to ancestors in the afterlife.
• Paying Respects: Bowing before the graves as a sign of reverence.
• Flying Kites: In some areas, people fly kites after tomb-sweeping activities. Some believe it can help prevent disasters and bring good luck.

Activities

Beyond ancestor veneration practices at cemeteries or family altars:

• Families often take advantage of the holiday for spring outings.
• Consumption of qingtuan — green glutinous rice balls filled with sweet bean paste — is another traditional activity associated with Qingming.

Tomb Sweeping Day is not just about mourning; it's also an occasion for families to gather together, enjoy the springtime outdoors, reaffirm their roots and heritage, all while showing respect for past generations.