花朝节：古人最浪漫的“嘉年华”｜新知

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the cultural significance and historical context of the Peony Festival in Luoyang, emphasizing the celebration of flowers, particularly the "Yao Huang" and "Wei Zi" peonies, and their role in social gatherings and artistic expression during the Song Dynasty [1][2][3]. Group 1: Cultural Significance of Peonies - The Peony Festival, centered around the blooming of peonies, became a grand event where scholars and commoners alike gathered to appreciate the flowers, leading to vibrant social interactions and artistic expressions [2][6]. - "Yao Huang" and "Wei Zi" are recognized as the "King" and "Queen" of peonies, respectively, standing out among nearly a hundred varieties in Luoyang [2][3]. Group 2: Social Activities and Gatherings - The festival included large gatherings known as the "Wan Hua Hui," where people enjoyed music, poetry, and wine, creating a lively atmosphere filled with joy and camaraderie [2][4]. - The tradition of wearing peonies in hair became widespread, symbolizing the cultural integration of flowers into daily life, regardless of social status [6][9]. Group 3: Economic Aspects of Flower Trade - The flower market in Luoyang thrived during the festival, with vendors selling peonies and other flowers, indicating a shift in societal views towards the commercialization of flowers [13][16]. - Historical records suggest that flower trading became a significant economic activity, with many families engaging in the sale of flowers, reflecting the growing appreciation for floral beauty in everyday life [13][16]. Group 4: Culinary Uses of Flowers - The article mentions the culinary aspect of flowers, particularly the use of peonies in dishes, showcasing the multifaceted appreciation of flowers beyond mere decoration [20][21]. - The tradition of making "Hundred Flower Cake" during the Flower Festival illustrates the integration of floral elements into local cuisine, further enriching the cultural experience [21].