Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as Moon Festival, is a traditional Chinese festival that typically occurs on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, falling between late September and mid-October in the Gregorian calendar. Here's a brief overview of its history, origins, and legends in English:
**History and Origin:**
- **Ancient Origin:** The Mid-Autumn Festival has ancient origins and is rooted in Chinese agricultural practices. It was believed that the moon was at its fullest and brightest on this day, marking the end of the autumn harvest season. Farmers would offer thanks to the gods for a good harvest and gather to enjoy the full moon with family and friends.
- **Tang Dynasty:** The festival became more widespread during the Tang Dynasty, with the popularity of mooncakes as a symbol of reunion and prosperity.
- **Loyalty to Heroes:** Some historians suggest that the festival developed during the Song Dynasty, as a day to commemorate the loyal general Liu Bang's failed attempt to seize power.
**Legends:**
1. **The Moon Lady - Chang'e (嫦娥):** One of the most famous legends associated with the Mid-Autumn Festival is that of Chang'e. According to the tale, there was an immortal, PanGu, who found and ate a magic fruit that would give immortality to whoever ate it. However, his wife Chang'e ate it accidentally while he was out. To avoid sharing her immortality with her husband or with evil spirits, she ascended to the moon, where she has lived ever since. The festival is said to celebrate her loneliness, and people often look at the moon during the festival, hoping to see her face.
2. **Houyi the Archer:** Another legend involves the archer Houyi, who was said to have shot nine celestial rabbits that were causing chaos on Earth. The festival is also believed to celebrate his success, with mooncakes often having a rabbit on their surface.
3. **The War Between Good and Evil:** Some legends link the Mid-Autumn Festival to a war between good and evil, with the festival commemorating the victory of the good side.
During the Mid-Autumn Festival, people gather for family reunions, eat mooncakes, and admire the moon, which is a symbol of prosperity, luck, and团圆 (reunion). The festival continues to be an important time for Chinese people worldwide to celebrate their culture and heritage.
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