People lined up on Thu at Jing'an Temple, one of the most famous Buddhist temples in downtown Shanghai, eagerly awaiting a hot bowl of free Laba congee. Thursday marks the Laba Festival, which signals that the Chinese Lunar New Year is just around the corner. On this day, many Chinese people enjoy preparing Laba congee, a dish comprising various grains, beans, and dried fruits. Laba Festival is also regarded as a day of charity. In ancient China, wealthy families would prepare a huge pot of congee and distribute it to the poor. Nowadays, many Buddhist temples follow this tradition and offer visitors free congees on Laba Festival each year. (Photos: Chen Xia/GT)