迎春 is one of the
二十四节气-linked customs: on
立春 (the start of spring) magistrates traditionally led an 'ox-welcoming' procession in the east suburbs. Today it doubles as a label for all Lunar New Year festivities —
迎春晚会 (New Year gala),
迎春庙会 (spring fair). The flower
迎春花 earns its name by blooming first, in early February, ahead of the rest.
