The Origin of the Lunar Minor New Year; Folk Customs of "Kitchen God Worship"!

In the south, the 24th day of the 12th lunar month is celebrated as the Minor New Year. For instance, in Guangdong, it is not called "Minor New Year" but rather "Xie Zao". According to legend, during these two days (the 23rd and 24th of the 12th lunar month), Lord Zao Jun ascends to heaven to report each family's behavior over the past year to the Jade Emperor. In order to get Lord Zao Jun to say a good word for them, people would offer various delicious foods to "seal" his mouth. Officials held the ceremony on the 23rd day of the 12th lunar month, while common people held it on the 24th day. This is what is referred to in southern folklore as "officials on the third, commoners on the fourth."