Vinegar Fever: Shanxi’s Laba Festival Sparks Tangy Traditions

As the Laba Festival approaches, the streets of Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, are buzzing with excitement. Residents are flocking to a centuries-old store to purchase freshly brewed vinegar, a staple ingredient in many traditional dishes.

Shoppers bring containers of all sizes, with most opting for at least 2.5 kilograms to ensure they have enough for the festive season. The air is thick with the rich aroma of aged vinegar, emanating from pipes that fill each container with the beloved tangy liquid.

The Laba Festival, celebrated on the eighth day of the twelfth lunar month, is a time for families to come together, enjoy special foods, and honor age-old traditions. This year, the vinegar brewing tradition in Shanxi highlights the region’s unique cultural heritage and the community's dedication to preserving it.

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Vinegar Fever: Laba Festival helps brew Shanxi's tangy tradition

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