When do people eat special food in your country?

In China, we tend to eat special foods mainly during traditional festivals and important family gatherings. The main reason is that these occasions carry cultural significance, and food becomes a way to connect with traditions and loved ones. For example, during Lunar New Year in Shanghai, my family always makes dumplings together - it's not just about the meal, but the whole process of preparing and sharing it that makes it meaningful. That said, younger generations like me sometimes adapt these traditions, like when I baked a chocolate cake for my work celebration instead of traditional sweets.