Major Cold (Dàhán)
The coldest time of year — the lunar new year draws near.
Major Cold (Dàhán) — Dates by Year
| Year | Gregorian Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 1/20 | Sat |
| 2025 | 1/20 | Mon |
| 2026← this year | 1/20 | Tue |
| 2027 | 1/20 | Wed |
| 2028 | 1/20 | Thu |
| 2029 | 1/20 | Sat |
| 2030 | 1/20 | Sun |
Introduction
Major Cold (Dàhán) is the twenty-fourth and final solar term, occurring around January 19–21 when the sun reaches 300°. "Major Cold" marks the year's extreme cold — the last term before the cycle begins anew with Start of Spring. The proverb "If Major Cold isn't cold, Spring Equinox won't be warm" illustrates the interconnectedness of the seasonal cycle. After Major Cold comes Start of Spring, completing one full annual orbit.
Taiwan's Major Cold & New Year
Around Major Cold, the lunar new year draws close and Taiwan's New Year market season peaks. Northern Taiwan temperatures average 8–15°C with frequent cold fronts. Major Cold typically falls in the late twelfth lunar month; families undertake end-of-year house cleaning, purchase New Year decorations and foods, and prepare for the reunion dinner. This is the season with the most festive energy in Taiwan.
Year-End Customs
Major Cold is Taiwan's critical year-end preparation period: Weiya (Tail Tooth ceremony, 12th/16) is the final offering to the Earth God and the occasion for company year-end banquets thanking employees; year-end house cleaning removes the year's old energy; spring couplets, door gods, and firecrackers are purchased to welcome the new year; chickens and pigs are prepared for New Year cooking. Major Cold is the moment to wrap up the year's affairs.
Wellness
Major Cold is the last push of winter wellness: warm yang, store energy, and build a foundation for spring. Eat warming, kidney-nourishing foods: walnuts, black beans, black sesame, and lamb. Traditional tonic formulas — Eight Treasures Soup or Complete Tonic Soup — are appropriate. With year-end social obligations increasing, be mindful of diet and avoid overeating. Maintain quality sleep, slow down, and welcome the new year with full energy and a peaceful heart.