Mid-Autumn Festival

Chinese culture · harvest · moon · family tradition

The Brightest Moon. The Mid-Autumn Festival happens on the 15th day of the 8th month in the Chinese calendar, when people believe the moon is at its fullest and brightest. It usually falls sometime between September 7 and October 8 each year.

Mooncakes Everywhere. Special treats called mooncakes are the star food of this festival. Families and friends share these delicious pastries that often have sweet fillings inside, celebrating the harvest season together.

Lanterns Light Up. During the festival, people hang colorful lanterns and let paper lanterns float into the night sky. The lanterns symbolize bringing light and happiness to families gathered below.

Family Reunions. The Mid-Autumn Festival is a time when families come together, much like how harvest time brings people together. It's one of the most important celebrations in Chinese culture where loved ones gather to enjoy the season and each other's company.

Harvest Celebration. This festival marks the middle of autumn when crops are being harvested. Ancient Chinese people celebrated their successful harvests and gave thanks for the bounty that would feed them through the coming winter.