Glutinous rice balls, usually consumed on Winter Solstice, come in a variety of colors and flavors. [Photo/WeChat account: wxbhfb]

Dec 22 marks the first day of Winter Solstice. People of Binhu district in Wuxi, Jiangsu province celebrate the day with flavorful glutinous rice balls and entertaining festivities.

Glutinous rice balls come in a variety of colors and flavors. Among the most popular are the sweet green ones often filled with red bean paste or sesame and the savory white ones, known for their delicious fillings such as meat, radish, and dried bamboo shoots.

Staff members at a nursing facility in Binhu make glutinous rice balls. [Photo/WeChat account: wxbhfb]

In the lead-up to Winter Solstice, communities in Binhu held a series of glutinous rice ball-making activities. Residents gathered to shape and stuff the delightful treats, fostering a sense of community and shared celebration.

In addition, there is a traditional custom of creating plum blossom paintings to record weather conditions for the 81 days following Winter Solstice.

Children create plum blossom paintings to celebrate Winter Solstice. [Photo/WeChat account: wxbhfb]

Several youngsters in Xuelang sub-district recently painted winter plum blossom scenes, featuring nine plum blossoms each with nine petals. This artistic practice not only connects the younger generation with cultural traditions but also adds a touch of creativity to the Winter Solstice celebrations.