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The Winter Solstice Festival (pronounced "Dong Zhi" in Cantonese and roughly means "The date of Winter") is celebrated when sunshine is weakest and daylight shortest. It is the time when farmers and fishermen collect supplies and food in preparation for the coming winter.
The meaning behind this festival can be traced back to the Yin and Yang philosophy of balance and harmony. After this celebration there would be days with longer daylight hours and this symbolized positive energy flowing in.
In modern times, it is a time for the family to get together. One activity that occurs during these get togethers is the making of Tong Yuen or balls of glutinuous rice. "Tong Yuen" are made of glutinuous rice flour and brightly coloured. Every one in the family receives at least one large "Tong Yuen" and several small ones. The flour balls may be plain or stuffed. They are cooked in a sweet soup or savoury broth with both the ball and the soup/broth served in one bowl.
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