Eating Pineapples 吃菠萝

During the Major Heat period, there are many warm-water fishes in the sea area around Taiwan. And there is also a saying in Taiwan which goes, “eating pineapples in Major Heat.” During the period of Major Heat, the pineapple tastes its best. Another custom in Taiwan around Major Heat is the “Half-a-Year Festival.” The festival falls on the 15th of June of the lunar calendar, because this day marks the passing of half a year. On that day, the whole family will eat a kind of cake called “Bannianyuan,” which refers to family reunion together. The cake is made of glutinous rice flour and Hongmian flour, and symbolizes reunion and happiness.