China’s annual celebration in late September and early October brings together two significant holidays, the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, creating a vibrant and joyous atmosphere across the nation. These back-to-back holidays are marked by unique traditions, cultural significance, and an outpouring of national pride.
Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival: A Time for Family and Mooncakes
The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, typically falls on the 15th day of the eighth month of the lunar calendar, which corresponds to late September or early October in the Gregorian calendar. This ancient festival is a time for families to come together and celebrate the harvest season while paying homage to the moon, a symbol of unity and reunion in Chinese culture.
Traditions:
- Mooncakes: Mooncakes, with their ornate designs and various fillings, are the star of the Mid-Autumn Festival. Families exchange these delectable treats as tokens of love and respect.
- Lanterns: Glowing lanterns light up the night, creating a magical ambiance. Children often carry lanterns of all shapes and sizes, adding to the festive spirit.
- Moon Gazing: Families gather outdoors to admire the full moon, believing it brings good fortune and happiness. It’s a time for reflection and gratitude.
Double Happiness: A Special Time for China
The long holiday is from Sept 29th to Oct 6th, 2023
