What is the Moon Festival?
The Moon Festival
- The Moon Festival, also known as the ‘Mid-Autumn Festival’ or the ‘Mooncake Festival’ is an annual Chinese traditional festival to celebrate the culmination of harvest, held on during September/October months that alligns with the 15th day of the 8th month of the Chinese lunisolar calander. The Chinese lunisolar calendar combines solar, lunar, and other cycles that conhere in agricultural prosperity. This year, it is on the 17th of September.
Origins Behind The Festival
- Studies determine that this festival began at 771 BCE, to celebrate the cultivation of rice and wheat under the full moon. The existence of the moon has been an important emblem of Chinese culture, tracing back to a story during the Zhou dynasty (1045-221BCE) that the emperors venerated the astronomical gods, praying that the following year would lead to an abundance of harvest.
- As it is a national holiday, families unite to enjoy the food made with the honours of the moon. It is common for services, banks, school to close for this day–and extra depending on the occasion– to adhere to the worship of transitioning to a full moon.
How do People Celebrate?
- Eating and Making Mooncakes
Mooncakes are the highlight of this festival. The complete shape of the moon celebrates family reunion, symbolises as the offering to the God of Moon. The cake is filled with lotus-bean paste which is sweet, and salted duck eggs that are savoury.
- Making and Flying Lanterns
Carrying brightly lit lanterns in different colors and sizes are a tradition, people draw pictures of animals or queotes of riddles, wishes or morals as a serene activity. Also a practice for worshipping the Moon, the lanterns also react as a guide of spirits as well. The lanterns can be floated on the river, or flown to the sky by attaching candles inside.
- Osmanthus Wine
Also called the ‘cassa wine’, this drink is the traditional liquor enjoyed at the time when the full moon’s reflection appears. It is flavoured with sweet osmanthis flowers. It is a classic choice with the symbol of reunion, and the flower itself signifies love, wealth, and fertility.
What Does Moon Festival Mean To Chinese People?
For Chinese people, the Moon Festival is a time of deep family connection and togetherness. It is a cherished occasion for gathering with loved ones, sharing meals, and celebrating the bonds that hold families together. The festival embodies the importance of unity, with the full moon symbolizing completeness and the circle of family life. It’s a moment to reflect on the blessings of family, to honor ancestors, and to create lasting memories. The festival serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of family bonds, providing an opportunity to reconnect with loved ones, even if they are far away. For many, the Moon Festival is not just a celebration but a reaffirmation of the values that keep families close and connected.
Edited by Bomi Park, Big Bang Artwork English Social Media Marketing
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Reference
https://www.chinahighlights.com/festivals/mid-autumn-festival-tradition.htm
https://www.bpl.org/blogs/post/the-origins-and-practices-of-the-august-moon-festival-mid-harvest-festival/
Cover image : https://www.manchestersfinest.com/articles/celebrate-years-moon-festival-hundreds-chinese-lanterns/