The Buzz Around Coca-Cola on Winter Solstice Day: A Debate on Festive Drinks and Commercialization

The first cup of Coca-Cola on Winter Solstice Day

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8 November 2023

With the arrival of the Winter Solstice, also known as Lie Dong in Chinese, many people have started celebrating by sharing various gifts and enjoying festive drinks. Amidst this seasonal joy, a discussion has emerged online about the appropriateness of Coca-Cola, a popular beverage, on such an occasion.

In a post shared by user @MiManchi-ML, it was announced that Coke would be the drink of choice for Winter Solstice day. The post read, "Coke is today's drink for @MiManchi-ML." This seemingly innocuous statement sparked a lively debate on Weibo, China's most popular social media platform.

A user named Mr. Yang Jiang shared his thoughts on the matter, saying, "In fact, all relationships are reciprocal between you and me. You give me a sugar, I will give you small cakes; you bring me to see the stars, I will take you to bask in the sun. The opposite is also true. If you think it doesn't matter if we haven't seen each other for a few days, then I can get through without seeing you for a few months." This remark implies that just as relationships involve mutual caring and consideration, so too should one's choice of drink on Winter Solstice Day reflect warmth and thoughtfulness.

Another user was less diplomatic in their response, stating, "It's not good, it's not good. I mean, who has this kind of luck? The largest red envelope prize surprise comes unexpectedly, and the picture shows its surprises." This comment is likely a reference to the fact that Winter Solstice Day often involves giving red envelopes filled with money as gifts, and some users feel that choosing Coca-Cola over more traditional festive drinks is inappropriate or lucky.

Among the various reactions online, many netizens have expressed confusion at the creativity, or lack thereof, of certain advertisements. A post read, "Can ad copy have a little creativity? Don't miss the huge bonus offer today! Click to claim your surprise. Likes and shares are appreciated." This criticism is similar to other complaints made about various commercialized aspects of Winter Solstice celebrations.

To further add fuel to the debate, another user shared that their sister's index rose after they drank a lucky Coke in the morning. The post read, "Sisters drink lucky coke in the morning, and the index directly rises." This observation has sparked discussion about whether or not Coca-Cola truly holds such mystical properties.

In conclusion, while some users on Weibo have joked about the supposed luck of Winter Solstice Day and the appropriateness of Coca-Cola as a festive drink, others have expressed genuine concern that such commercialized celebrations are losing their original spirit. As winter approaches, it remains to be seen whether Coke will become a more accepted or less favored choice for Winter Solstice Day celebrations in China.