Jan 20, 2026; Jan 20, 2027 (the moment the term begins, Beijing time).

What are the three pentads of Major Cold?

Pentad 1: 雞始乳 (Hens begin to brood); Pentad 2: 征鳥厲疾 (Birds of prey fly fierce and fast); Pentad 3: 水澤腹堅 (Ponds freeze solid to the middle).

Where is the Sun at Major Cold?

The Sun reaches ecliptic longitude 300° (entering Aquarius). Major Cold is a principal term (zhongqi) in winter.

Solar term 24 of 24

大寒 · Dahan

Sun's longitude 300° · Principal term (zhongqi) · Winter · Jan 20, 2026

The coldest time of the year, and the last of the 24 terms. After Major Cold, the cycle begins again with Start of Spring.

Each solar term is split into three pentads of about five days, each marked by a sign in nature.

Families clean house, paste paper-cut window flowers and shop for the Spring Festival.

Dates are in Beijing time.

When is Major Cold?: Jan 20, 2026; Jan 20, 2027 (the moment the term begins, Beijing time).
What are the three pentads of Major Cold?: Pentad 1: 雞始乳 (Hens begin to brood); Pentad 2: 征鳥厲疾 (Birds of prey fly fierce and fast); Pentad 3: 水澤腹堅 (Ponds freeze solid to the middle).
What customs are associated with Major Cold?: Families clean house, paste paper-cut window flowers and shop for the Spring Festival.
Where is the Sun at Major Cold?: The Sun reaches ecliptic longitude 300° (entering Aquarius). Major Cold is a principal term (zhongqi) in winter.

For culture and fun: personality and tradition only, no predictions.