Qing Ming Festival : Honoring Our Ancestors

Qing Ming Festival, also known as Tomb Sweeping Day, is a traditional Chinese festival dedicated to honoring our ancestors. It usually falls on early April, Qing Ming is a day for families to gather, visit ancestral gravesites, and pay their respects.

The day often starts with family members cleaning the tombstones and clearing away any weeds or debris. This act of “tomb sweeping” is an expression of gratitude, showing respect and care for those who came before us.

1. Prep

However before the day comes, we have to prepare a series of items

Sand, Earth and Shovel

Our great grand father passed on WW2. So his grave requires annually shaping to keep the tomb pleasant.

Fruits and Dessert Kuih

Red Paint and Brush

Again our great grand father’s tomb was a really simple tombstone, the name was carved in, and the paint has to be renew every few years, 3-5 years if we use Nippon Paint that’s made for steel.

Firecrackers

Umbrellas and Cooler box

It’s important to keep ourself shaded and hydrated throughout the day.

2. Cooking at Dawn

We have 3 tombs to visit, first one at

3. Burning paper offerings

After cleaning the graves, families offer food, tea, and incense to their ancestors. These offerings symbolize the family’s love and support, extending even beyond life. Burning paper offerings, called “joss paper,” is another important ritual. Traditionally, people burn paper money, called “hell money,” which is believed to provide financial support to ancestors in the afterlife. Over the years, joss paper offerings have expanded beyond money. Now, items like paper houses, cars, clothing, and even smartphones are burned, all crafted from paper and meant to bring comfort and prosperity to ancestors in the spirit world.

Through these rituals, Qing Ming Festival keeps the family bond alive, bridging the gap between the past and present. It’s a meaningful time for reflection, honoring family legacy, and reminding us to cherish our loved ones while they’re here.