Today is Winter Solstice Today is Winter Solstice . As early as 2500 years ago , China had determined the point of Winter Solstice by observing movements of the sun with a sundial . The time will be between each December 21 and 23 according to the Gregorian Calendar. On this day , most people in northern China eat dumplings to commemorate an ancient doctor called Zhang zhong Jing . His medical skill was very surperb and he was a kind person. According to legend, He created dumplings and provided dumplings for poor people to keep from cold . And Charity happened on Winter Solstice. However most people in southern China eat tang yuan , it is made of sticky rice flour filled with sweet stuffing and round in shape , tang yuan symbolizes family unity , completeness and happiness . Moreover, some people in particular places eat mutton soup and some other Chinese traditional food. Winter Solstice is our traditional festival with long history , although nowadays , most places dont have grand celebrating activities and people dont have vacation on this day, however it is still a very important festival for Chinese people.