Mid-Autumn Festival Explained

The Mid-Autumn Festival celebrates the brightest full moon of autumn.

The festival is celebrated mainly in Chinese culture and several Asian countries.

This harvest festival is on the 15th day, eighth lunar month.

Chinese goddess Chang'e is the Moon goddess in mythology.

Lanterns of all shapes light the path to prosperity and good fortune.

Mooncakes are a rich pastry shared among families to symbolize reunion.

The festival honors Chang'e, the Moon goddess in Chinese mythology.

Families thank the harvest and pray for good fortune today.

Lantern riddles are a playful tradition during the festival celebrations.

Dragon and lion dances are popular in southern China at this festival.

The festival is an official public holiday in China and Taiwan.

People enjoy mooncakes and admire the full moon as a family tradition.

The festival connects people through sharing, gratitude, and moon worship.