这个时节，我国大部分地区气温升高，降水增多。南方草木繁茂，到处郁郁葱葱，北方的草木也开始蓬勃生长，呈现欣欣向荣之势。

During this period, temperatures climb, and rain increases throughout most of China. Vegetation flourishes, painting lush landscapes in the south, while the north bursts with vibrant flora, creating flourishing sceneries.

作为节气的清明，其最早记载可见于西汉的《淮南子》。清明节前一两日是寒食节，据传为了纪念被晋文公误烧死的贤士介子推而设立。

The earliest records of Qingming as a solar term can be traced back to the ancient text Huainanzi, written during the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 24). Hanshi, a festival which translates as "cold meals", fell one or two days before Qingming. The festival was held in memory of Jie Zitui, a capable man who died because of a mistake by Duke Wen of the Jin State.

在唐朝时，清明逐渐吸收寒食节的一些风俗，开始演变成缅怀先祖、悼念故人的全国性节日。

Since the Tang Dynasty (618-907), Qingming has evolved into a national holiday to honor ancestors and mourn the dead that has incorporated some customs from Hanshi.

从古至今，有不少诗文描绘清明时的景象，迄今被国人传诵。最负盛名的诗篇之一，当属唐代诗人杜牧的“清明时节雨纷纷，路上行人欲断魂。借问酒家何处有，牧童遥指杏花村”。

Ancient poems about Qingming are still recited today. One of the best-known is by Tang Dynasty poet Du Mu. It says: "A drizzling rain falls like tears on the day of Qingming. The mourner's heart is about to break on his way. Where can a liquor shop be found to drown his sorrowful hours? A cowherd points to a cot amid apricot flowers."

在清明，能品尝到特有的美食——青团。这种糕点色泽莹绿、软糯甜腻，由糯米和捣碎的艾草制成，又称艾团或清明团子。

During Qingming, you can taste a delicacy called Qingtuan. This pastry made from glutinous rice and pounded mugwort has a bright-green color, and a soft, sticky and sweet texture. It is also called aituan or Qingming tuanzi.

来源：中国日报双语新闻