Transformations in the Traditional Year-In Custom of the Khorchin Mongolians, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region (IMAR)

The Khorchin are the largest ethnic subgroup within the Mongolian population in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region (IMAR), with unofficial estimates placing their population at over 1.8 million, primarily residing in Tongliao City and surrounding regions. The Mongolian year-in tradition is a significant expression of intangible cultural heritage, symbolizing the natural human life cycle - birth, growth, aging, and passing into the afterlife. While individuals cannot choose their year of birth or destiny, Mongolian communities have long practiced ritual gift-giving as part of year-in celebrations. These customs are particularly evident during major events such as the Lunar New Year, weddings, and family feasts, where acts of giving and receiving gifts convey deep social sincerity and mutual respect. Among the most notable early-life celebrations are the Full Moon Ceremony and the First Birthday Ceremony, both marking critical transitions in a child's development. This paper explores the year-in gift-giving customs of the Khorchin Mongolians, with a focus on their historical roots, symbolic meanings, and contemporary transformations. Through this examination, the study aims to shed light on how traditional practices adapt within a changing social and economic context.