Is there a Chinese holiday now? The answer is yes, and it’s one of the most significant and widely celebrated festivals in China—Mid-Autumn Festival. Also known as Moon Festival, it falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month according to the traditional Chinese calendar. This year, it falls on September 29th, 2023. The Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for family reunions, moon gazing, and the enjoyment of mooncakes, a traditional Chinese pastry.
The Mid-Autumn Festival has a rich history that dates back over 3,000 years. It originated during the Tang Dynasty and is closely associated with the story of Chang’e, the moon goddess. According to legend, Chang’e ascended to the moon after swallowing an elixir of immortality, leaving her husband Hou Yi on Earth. The festival is a time for people to honor Chang’e and celebrate the full moon, which symbolizes completeness and unity.
During the Mid-Autumn Festival, families come together to enjoy a feast, often consisting of mooncakes, tea, and other traditional dishes. Mooncakes are round pastries filled with sweet or savory ingredients, such as lotus seed paste, red bean paste, or salted egg yolk. They are believed to symbolize the full moon and are typically given as gifts to friends and family. The custom of giving mooncakes also dates back to the Song Dynasty, where it was a way to express gratitude and well-wishes.
In addition to enjoying the feast, people also gather to gaze at the moon, which is at its fullest and brightest during this festival. Moon gazing is a time for reflection and for expressing wishes for family harmony and prosperity. The full moon is a powerful symbol of unity and is often associated with the idea of togetherness and shared joy.
While the Mid-Autumn Festival is deeply rooted in Chinese tradition, it has also become a time for modern celebrations. In recent years, it has become increasingly popular for people to take to social media to share their experiences and wishes. The festival has also seen the rise of new customs, such as sky lantern releases and lantern shows, which add to the festive atmosphere.
The Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for reflection, celebration, and the strengthening of family bonds. It is a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of China and the importance of tradition in modern society. As the moon rises on this festive night, it brings with it a sense of unity and shared joy, making it a truly special time for people across the country. So, yes, there is indeed a Chinese holiday now, and it is the beautiful and meaningful Mid-Autumn Festival.
