As the Major Snow solar term arrives on December 7, 2025, a kindergarten in Taizhou has brought cultural education to life by teaching children traditional pork preservation techniques. This hands-on activity helps young learners connect with China's ancient agricultural calendar while preserving culinary heritage.
Major Snow (Dàxuě), the 21st of China's 24 solar terms, marks the arrival of drier, colder weather ideal for food preservation. The Taizhou school initiative mirrors community practices where families traditionally begin curing meats during this period, creating winter provisions through time-tested methods.
"Through scraping salt and preparing pork, children understand our ancestors' wisdom in harmonizing with nature's rhythms," explained teacher Zhang Wei. The program combines practical skills with lessons about seasonal changes and food security.
This year's observance gains particular significance as urban populations increasingly rediscover traditional food preservation methods. Nutritionists note renewed interest in air-dried meats aligns with modern preferences for additive-free foods and sustainable practices.
