Traditional niangao, or glutinous rice cakes, are prepared for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations in Zhongcun village, Weifang city, Shandong province, Feb. 6, 2024. Chinese New Year, one of the most important festivals in China, is rich with customs and traditions, including the preparation of delicious and attractive snacks. For example, people in some parts of the country make traditional niangao to symbolize good fortune for the coming year. The term "niangao" is considered auspicious, as it sounds like the phrase "growing every year" in Chinese, symbolizing continuous improvement and success. [Photo by Xu Xiaoxuan/China.org.cn]