Traditional culture in plain words
Lesser Snow (小雪)
At Lesser Snow, light snow begins to fall in the north, and the weather turns dry and cold.
At a glance
What the solar terms mean
Lesser Snow falls around 22 November. It is the second solar term of winter. In the north, the first snow is thin and fine, and this gives the term its name.
In southern China, including Hong Kong and Taiwan, snow is rare. The air is dry and cool there too, as autumn gives way to winter.
Traditional customs in different places
Around Lesser Snow, families prepare for winter. They pickle vegetables, dry fish, and make cured meats (臘味, air-dried sausages and pork). In southern China and Hong Kong, strings of sausages are hung out to dry in the cool air. In Taiwan, coastal towns sun-dry mullet roe. The dry weather is also a fine time to air quilts and sort winter clothes.
Solar terms belong to the traditional calendar and are shared for cultural reference. For weather, please follow the forecast from your local weather service.