Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is one of the most traditional and widely celebrated festivals in China. It is held on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, when the moon is believed to be at its brightest and roundest. This time of year is associated with family reunions, gratitude, and the harvest season.
The origins of the Mid-Autumn Festival can be traced back over 3,000 years to ancient China. While there are many legends and stories surrounding its beginning, one of the most popular is related to the myth of Chang’e, the Moon Goddess. According to the tale, Chang’e was a beautiful woman who drank an elixir of immortality to save her husband from being taken by an evil force. She then ascended to the moon, where she lives alone, symbolizing the longing for reunion and the beauty of the full moon.
Another historical reference suggests that the festival began during the Shang Dynasty (around 1600–1046 BCE), when people offered sacrifices to the moon as a way to express their reverence for nature and the cycles of life. Over time, this practice evolved into a more festive celebration, especially during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), when poetry and art flourished, and the moon became a central theme in cultural expressions.
During the Song Dynasty (960–1279 CE), the festival became more structured, and customs such as eating mooncakes, lighting lanterns, and gathering with family were formally established. These traditions have been passed down through generations and remain an essential part of the celebration today.
In English, the Mid-Autumn Festival is often referred to as the "Moon Festival" or "Chinese Moon Festival." It is not only celebrated in China but also in other parts of Asia, including Vietnam, Korea, and Singapore, where it has been influenced by Chinese culture.
Today, the Mid-Autumn Festival continues to be a time for families to come together, share food, and appreciate the beauty of the night sky. The festival reflects the values of harmony, gratitude, and the deep connection between people and nature.
