Enjoy the Mid-Autumn: A Festive Introduction
Have you heard of the Mid-Autumn Festival (中秋节, zhōnɡqiūjié)? And do you know the festival is just around the corner? If your answer is no, don’t worry! we’ve got you covered! Let’s dive deep into this traditional Chinese holiday and see the unique customs that make it so special together!
What is the Mid-Autumn Festival?
The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is one of the most significant celebrations in Chinese culture. It takes place on the 15th day of the 8th month in the Chinese lunisolar calendar, which typically falls in September or October when the moon is at its fullest and brightest. This year, the Mid-Autumn Festival will be on September 17th.
Why is it important?
The Mid-Autumn Festival is a time to celebrate the harvest and give thanks for the abundance of the year. It’s a cherished occasion for family reunions, where relatives near and far come together to share the joy under the same sky, united by the light of the full moon. In Chinese culture, the full moon is more than just beautiful – it stands for unity and togetherness. People believe that the full moon during this time is the most beautiful and serves as a reminder of the wholeness of family, no matter the physical distance between members.
Traditions in the Mid-Autumn Festival
Eating Mooncakes 吃月饼 (chī yuèbǐnɡ)
Eating mooncakes is perhaps the most iconic tradition of the Mid-Autumn Festival! These round pastries, often delicately designed, are a symbol of the moon and represent unity, completeness, and reunion. Mooncakes are typically shared among family and friends, and the act of sharing a mooncake is a symbol of sharing happiness, blessings, and prosperity.
-Varieties of Mooncakes: Mooncakes come in a wide variety of flavors and styles, reflecting regional tastes and culinary traditions. The traditional mooncake features a dense, sweet filling made from lotus seed paste or red bean paste. It often encases a salted duck egg yolk, which represents the full moon. In addition to these classic fillings, modern mooncakes now feature a wide range of options, from chocolate and fruit to ice cream. (Tip from Deer: This year’s trend is chocolate!) The outer crust of a mooncake can vary as well, ranging from flaky and thin to soft and chewy.
-Symbolism and Significance: The round shape of the mooncake is a powerful emblem in Chinese culture, representing the completeness of the moon and the idea of reunion. When families cut the mooncake into pieces and share it, they symbolize coming together. This act signifies sharing life’s sweetness and blessings. In addition, you can also give mooncakes as gifts to friends, colleagues, and business associates as a gesture of goodwill and respect.
-Mooncake Variations Across Regions: Different regions in China have their own unique versions of mooncakes. For example, in Guangdong, the Cantonese-style mooncake is known for its thin, tender crust and diverse fillings, including nuts, seeds, and even savory ingredients like ham. In Suzhou, the mooncakes are typically flaky and savory, with fillings such as pork and shallots. Meanwhile, in Beijing, mooncakes often feature a dense, sweet filling with a thicker crust.
Moon Viewing 赏月 (shǎng yuè)
Moon viewing is another essential tradition of the Mid-Autumn Festival. This practice dates back thousands of years ago, with people gathering to admire the beauty of the full moon.
Family Gatherings: During the Mid-Autumn Festival, families often gather outdoors in gardens, parks, or on rooftops to enjoy the moonlight together. They lay out a spread of seasonal fruits, tea, and mooncakes, creating a serene atmosphere to appreciate the beauty of the night. It’s a time for storytelling, where parents and grandparents pass down tales of the Moon Goddess Chang’e, the Jade Rabbit, and other legends associated with the moon.
Cultural and Poetic Significance: In Chinese culture, the moon isn’t just a celestial body; it’s a symbol of beauty, peace, and the cyclical nature of life. Moon viewing isn’t just an act of gazing at the sky. It is also a moment of reflection, where people contemplate the passage of time, the seasons, and the presence of loved ones. This tradition has inspired countless poems, songs, and paintings throughout Chinese history, with many poets using the moon’s imagery to express feelings of nostalgia, longing, and love.
Spiritual and Mystical Aspects: For many, moon viewing also carries spiritual significance. The full moon is considered to be a time when the boundary between the earthly and celestial worlds is at its thinnest, making it a perfect moment for meditation, prayer, and making wishes. Some people believe that the full moon on this night has the power to bless those who admire it with good fortune, health, and happiness.
Are you fully immersing yourself in the Mid-Autumn Festival spirit? To deepen your experience, why not try making or tasting mooncakes? This simple yet meaningful activity provides a delicious way to connect with the festival’s rich culinary traditions. Also, be sure to check out the next blog! We’ll introduce some useful expressions and words related to the Mid-Autumn Festival!
