The Origin of the Mid-Autumn Festival

Introduction

The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is a traditional Chinese festival celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, which falls sometime in September or October in the Western calendar. It is one of the most important festivals in China, along with the Spring Festival and the Dragon Boat Festival. The festival is closely associated with the moon and mooncakes, and is a time for family reunions and celebrations of harvest and good fortune.

The Legend of Chang'e and Houyi

There are several legends about the origin of the Mid-Autumn Festival, but the most well-known one is about Chang'e and Houyi. According to the legend, a long time ago, there were ten suns in the sky, which made the earth scorching hot and barren. Houyi, a skilled archer, shot down nine of the suns and saved the earth from destruction. As a reward, the Queen of Heaven gave him a pill that could make him immortal. However, Houyi did not want to become immortal without his wife, Chang'e. He asked her to keep the pill for him while he went out hunting, but one of his apprentices tried to steal the pill from Chang'e. To prevent him from getting the pill, Chang'e took it herself and flew to the moon. When Houyi came back and learned what had happened, he was heartbroken and offered sacrifices to Chang'e on the fifteenth day of the eighth lunar month, which became the Mid-Autumn Festival.

The Tradition of Mooncakes and Lanterns

Mooncakes and lanterns are two important elements of the Mid-Autumn Festival. Mooncakes are round or square pastries filled with sweet or savory fillings, such as lotus seed paste, red bean paste, and egg yolks. They come in various sizes and flavors, and are often given as gifts or served during family gatherings. The shape of the mooncake symbolizes completeness and unity, while the filling represents good wishes and blessings. Lanterns, on the other hand, are decorated with colorful paper or silk and illuminated from within by candles or LEDs. They come in different shapes and sizes, such as round, square, or animal-shaped, and are hung or carried during the festival to create a festive atmosphere and showcase artistic creativity.

Conclusion

The Mid-Autumn Festival is not only a time to celebrate the harvest and the moon, but also a time to reflect on the importance of family, love, and sacrifice. The legend of Chang'e and Houyi reminds us of the power of love and loyalty, while the tradition of mooncakes and lanterns brings people together and inspires creativity. As China's soft power and cultural heritage attract more and more international attention, the Mid-Autumn Festival has become a unique opportunity to showcase China's traditions and values to the world and promote cross-cultural exchanges and understanding.