celebrated two weeks after the vernal equinox, tomb sweeping day is one of the few traditional chinese holidays that follows the solar calendar-- typically falling on april 4, 5, or 6.

its chinese name qing ming literally means clear brightness, hinting at its importance as a celebration of spring. similar to the spring festivals of other cultures, tomb sweeping day celebrates the rebirth of nature, while marking the beginning of the planting season and other outdoor activities.