Families in Nanfeng town, Zhangjiagang city work together to make steamed buns to celebrate the Spring Festival. [Photo from WeChat account zhoubawenyi]

With Spring Festival approaching, families in Nanfeng town, Zhangjiagang city are connecting with their unique New Year tradition of making steamed buns.

With the idea of life "steaming up", making steamed buns stuffed with various kinds of fillings is a favorite way to celebrate Spring Festival, which falls on Jan 28 this year.

All family members are eager to do their bit, including lighting the fire, preparing the buns, mixing ingredients, kneading dough, and rolling skins; every corner is filled with joy and laughter.

The New Year-themed buns are unique with a red dot on the top, symbolizing auspicious times, happiness and good health. [Photo from WeChat account zhoubawenyi]

The New Year-themed buns are unique with a red dot on the top, as red is a favorite color for festivals in China. It symbolizes auspicious times, happiness and good health.

With the sound of the steamer whistling, people are eager to take a bite, as the buns are best eaten fresh and they are also said to bring good luck.

Wu Liping, a local resident, expressed her view that the traditions of Spring Festival help to bring families together.

A boy enjoys a steamed bun fresh from the steamer. [Photo from WeChat account zhoubawenyi]