04 April - Qingming Festival

 

The Qingming Festival, also known as Tomb-Sweeping Day, is an important traditional Chinese festival observed on April 4th or 5th of the lunar calendar each year. The festival is a time for people to remember and honor their ancestors by visiting their graves, cleaning the tombstones, and making offerings of food, flowers, and other items.

Qingming Festival has been celebrated in China for over 2,500 years and has deep cultural and historical significance. It is believed to have originated from the Hanshi Festival, a day of paying homage to ancestors during the Spring and Autumn Period (770–476 BC).

Apart from tomb-sweeping activities, Qingming Festival is also a time for outdoor activities such as flying kites, taking walks, and enjoying the blooming of spring flowers. Traditional Qingming foods such as qingtuan (green dumplings), crispy cakes, and spring rolls are often enjoyed during this festival.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in observing Qingming Festival, both in mainland China and among Chinese communities around the world, as people seek to reconnect with their cultural heritage and ancestral roots.

 

04 April - School Librarian Day

 

School Librarian Day is celebrated annually on April 4th to honor the contributions and hard work of school librarians. These dedicated professionals play a crucial role in promoting literacy, supporting education, and fostering a love for reading among students. School librarians curate collections of books and educational resources, provide guidance and assistance to students and teachers in research and information literacy skills, and create welcoming environments that inspire learning and exploration.

On School Librarian Day, schools and communities may organize events and activities to recognize the efforts of school librarians, such as award ceremonies, appreciation lunches, or social media campaigns expressing gratitude and support. It's a time to acknowledge the invaluable role that school librarians play in nurturing young minds and shaping the future of education.

04 April - Children's Day (Hong Kong, Taiwan)

 

Children's Day is indeed celebrated in Hong Kong and Taiwan on April 4th each year. This special day is dedicated to celebrating children and highlighting the importance of their well-being, happiness, and rights.

In Hong Kong, Children's Day is a time for families to spend quality time together, often involving outings to parks, amusement parks, or other recreational activities. Schools and community organizations may also organize events and activities to entertain and educate children, such as performances, games, and educational workshops.

Similarly, in Taiwan, Children's Day is a joyous occasion marked by various festivities and activities. Schools may hold special assemblies or performances to honor students, and families often spend the day together engaging in fun and meaningful activities. There may also be public events and celebrations organized by local governments or community groups to entertain and delight children of all ages.

Overall, Children's Day in Hong Kong and Taiwan is a time to celebrate the innocence, creativity, and potential of children, while also advocating for their rights and well-being. It's a day for families and communities to come together to cherish and support the youngest members of society.