What is Mid-Autumn Festival

The Origin of Mid-Autumn Festival

Mid-Autumn Festival is one of the important traditional Chinese festivals, which falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month. It is also known as the Moon Festival, as this is the time when the moon is at its fullest and brightest. The festival has a long history dating back to the Tang Dynasty and has many legends and folklore attached to it. One of the most famous legends is about a beautiful lady named Chang’e, who flew to the moon after drinking the elixir of life. According to the legend, she lived on the moon with a jade rabbit, where they made the elixir for people who wanted to live forever.

Traditions and Customs

The Mid-Autumn Festival has many customs and traditions, including eating mooncakes, worshiping the moon, and enjoying the beauty of the full moon. Mooncakes are round, pastry-filled cakes that are traditionally eaten during the festival. They symbolize completeness and unity, and are often given as gifts to friends and family. Worshiping the moon is also an important part of the festival. People offer fruits, incense, and other offerings to the moon and pray for good health and fortune. In addition, lanterns are hung up and lit, adding to the festival's festive atmosphere.

Mid-Autumn Festival Around the World

Although the Mid-Autumn Festival is traditionally a Chinese festival, it has become popular in many other countries, including Vietnam, Korea, Malaysia, and Singapore. In Vietnam, it is known as Tết Trung Thu, while in Korea, it is called Chuseok. Each country has its own customs and traditions for celebrating the festival, but the essence of the festival remains the same – to celebrate the beauty of the full moon and to be with family and loved ones. In conclusion, the Mid-Autumn Festival is an important and meaningful festival that celebrates family, unity, and the beauty of the full moon. Whether you are Chinese or not, it is a festival that can be enjoyed and appreciated by everyone.