Grab A Broom*It's Tomb Sweeping Day!

Note: Proper title - Grab A Broom; It's Tomb Sweeping Day!


Look out, burial dust bunnies. Folks from China, Taiwan and Korea celebrate something called Tomb Sweeping Day on April 5th. It is a celebration similar to the American Memorial Day, but it involves more than just sweeping.

First, the family will fix anything that may be damaged. Then they pull weeds and may even plant flowers or trees. After the gardening is done, they sweep and clean the gravesite.

It is believed that one's ancestors protect and guide their family from the next world. It is also believed that their ancestors are more willing to do so if well taken care of. This belief is the basis for the next step. Paper money (also known as spirit money) and incense are burned. Food, which is generally grave cakes, and something to drink is then left at the tomb. The money is now the ancestor’s income, and the grave cakes and drink their sustenance in the next world.

Finally, they will hang paper on the tombstone. These gold or multi-colored bits of paper are shaped like money and also represent income for their ancestors.

These traditions vary from region to region and country to country. What remains the same is the dedication for family and the reverence and respect that is given to their ancestors.



Sidebar info:

Grave cakes are made in a variety of ways. Some are made with rice milk, baking powder and herbs. Others are made with dyed rice dough and filled with bean paste or peanut powder.