The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is a traditional Chinese festival that falls on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month. Here is an overview of its origin and cultural customs in English:
### Origin
The Mid-Autumn Festival has ancient origins and is associated with various legends. One of the most famous is the story of the moon god, Chang'e. According to the tale, Chang'e swallowed a pill of immortality, causing her to be sent to the moon. Her husband, Hou Yi, missed her deeply and, in his longing, looked up at the moon. It is said that this festival commemorates their reunion.
Another popular story relates to the Emperor Li Yuan, who is said to have had a dream of the moon. In order to celebrate this dream, he decreed the 15th day of the 8th lunar month as the Mid-Autumn Festival.
### Cultural Customs
1. **Moon Viewing**: This is perhaps the most significant custom of the Mid-Autumn Festival. Families gather together to admire the full moon, which is believed to be the brightest of the year. It is a time for togetherness and reflection.
2. **Mooncakes**: Mooncakes are the iconic food of the Mid-Autumn Festival. These round, moon-shaped pastries symbolize family reunion and can be filled with various types of sweet or savory fillings. It's common for families to distribute mooncakes to friends and relatives during this time.
3. **Lanterns**: People often decorate their homes with lanterns, including lanterns shaped like the moon, lotus flowers, or other auspicious symbols. Children enjoy carrying lanterns and releasing them into the night sky.
4. **Dragon and Lion Dances**: In some regions, dragon and lion dances are performed as part of the festival's celebration, symbolizing strength and prosperity.
5. **Poetry and Literature**: The Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for poets to write and appreciate moon-themed poems. The festival has inspired countless verses and songs over the centuries.
6. **Tea Parties**: Drinking tea is also a custom associated with the Mid-Autumn Festival. It is believed that tea helps to clear the mind and make the moon more enjoyable to watch.
7. **Folk Games**: Various folk games, such as the "Moon Cake Guessing Game" and the "Moon Festival Riddle Game," are played to entertain guests and pass the time.
The Mid-Autumn Festival is not only a time to celebrate the moon but also a time to honor family, tradition, and the beauty of nature. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm across China and among Chinese communities worldwide.
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