Lunar Festival
October 6, Monday
History and Significance
The festival originated as a harvest celebration and moon worship. In China, it is associated with the legend of Chang’e, the Moon goddess, who flew to the moon and lives there alone. In Vietnam, the festival has also taken on a social meaning: it is dedicated to children, their happiness and well-being, and traditions include parades, games, and gifts.
Celebration Traditions
* Admiring the full moon and holding family gatherings.
* Preparing and giving mooncakes, symbolizing family unity.
* In Vietnam, colorful lantern processions, parades, and theatrical performances for children are organized.
* Children carry lanterns shaped like animals or stars and participate in games, songs, and dances.
* Offerings of fruits, sweets, and symbolic dishes to honor ancestors.
Modern Significance
The Mid-Autumn Festival remains an important cultural tradition, bringing families together and maintaining a connection with ancestors. In Vietnam, it emphasizes children, their joy, and family values, and is a time of gifts and festivities.
Geography of Celebration
* China — the main center of the festival with deep cultural traditions.
* Vietnam — the festival is strongly child-oriented and has unique traditions with lanterns and processions.
* South Korea and Japan — celebrate equivalents of the Moon Festival (Chuseok in Korea, Tsukimi in Japan).
* Other countries with Chinese or Vietnamese diaspora also celebrate this festival, preserving the traditions.
Lunar Festival in other years
- 2022 September 10, Saturday
- 2023 September 29, Friday
- 2024 September 17, Tuesday
- 2026 September 25, Friday