Dongzhi – Dec. 21, 2026

Expected Dongzhi Deals

While specific 2027 promotions for Dongzhi are still emerging, history shows a focus on family meals and traditional ingredients. Look for Asian grocery stores like H Mart and 99 Ranch Market to offer discounts on glutinous rice flour for tangyuan, fresh produce for hot pot, and pre-made dumplings. Online retailers such as Yamibuy and Weee! may feature special bundles for Dongzhi feasts, including cookware and specialty snacks. Restaurants specializing in Chinese cuisine, like Din Tai Fung or local favorites, often promote special Dongzhi menus or family-style meal deals. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as December approaches.

History of Dongzhi

The story of Dongzhi starts sometime in the winter of 770 B.C. in China. Astronomers of the time observed that the nights are longest at a particular time of the year. Today, this period is more commonly known as the winter solstice in the West — an observance with deep cultural significance across different countries. In East Asia, the winter solstice means it’s time to celebrate Dongzhi.

People in China have been celebrating it since the time of the Han Dynasty (202 B.C. to 220 A.D.). The festival embodies the interplay between the ‘Yin’ and ‘Yang’ forces that form the foundations of Chinese philosophy. ‘Yang’ represents ‘masculinity’, whereas ‘Yin’ is its ‘feminine’ opposite. Traditionally, the Chinese believed that Yin reaches its peak on the winter solstice before gradually paving the way for Yang to regain strength. To make up for weakened Yang levels, people ate foods high in masculine energy during winter.

Foods like ‘jiaozi’ (meat-stuffed dumplings) and warming herbs like ginger and garlic were popular winter foods. It’s why Dongzhi festivities today mostly revolve around making and eating fatty dumplings. Dongzhi received prominence during the rule of the Tong and San dynasties when it became a public holiday. People started the day with a visit to the clan tombs to remember the spirits of their ancestors. Later in the evening, families gathered for a hearty meal of dumplings.

Dumplings, as an enduring symbol of Dongzhi, started in Northern China. Eating dumplings provided comfort since winters here were devastatingly harsh. People believed that the ear-like shape of dumplings would protect their ears from frostbite. Dongzhi festivities are different in Southern China, where temperatures aren’t extreme. Here, noodles and ‘tangyuan’ (rice flour balls) dominate dinner tables during the festival. The sweet rice flour balls symbolize family togetherness.

How Businesses Can Celebrate Dongzhi