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The Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is a traditional harvest festival that is celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month.
The story behind this festival dates back to ancient Chinese folklore and revolves around a mythical figure named Chang'e. The story goes that a long time ago, there were ten suns in the sky, causing extreme heat and drought, and threatening the lives of the people. To bring relief, a skilled archer named Hou Yi shot down nine of the suns, leaving only one. Hou Yi then became a hero and was admired by the people.
Hou Yi married a beautiful and kind-hearted woman named Chang'e. One day, Hou Yi was rewarded with a magical elixir of immortality from the Queen Mother of the West for his deed in shooting down the suns. However, he didn't want to become immortal without Chang'e, so he entrusted the elixir to Chang'e for safekeeping.
Curiosity got the better of Chang'e, and she decided to taste a small amount of the elixir. As soon as she did, she became weightless and started floating towards the moon. When Hou Yi found out, he was heartbroken and offered sacrifices to Chang'e on the Moon Festival, which marked the day she ascended to the moon.
To celebrate the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival, here are some traditional activities and practices:
1.Family Reunion: The festival is all about family togetherness. Try to gather all family members, including relatives, to celebrate together. It's a great opportunity for everyone to bond and spend quality time together.
2.Moon Appreciation: The moon isa central symbol of the festival. Spend some time outdoors to appreciate the full moon with your loved ones. Find a spot with a clear view of the sky, such as a park or rooftop, and enjoy the beauty of the moonlit night.
3.Lanterns: Lighting and hangingcolorful lanterns is another common practice during the Mid-Autumn Festival. You can decorate your home with lanterns or even participate in lantern parades if they are organized in your area.
4.Mooncakes: Mooncakes are araditional delicacy during this festival. Try making or buying mooncakes with different fillings like red bean paste, lotus seed paste, or salted egg yolks. Share and enjoy these tasty treats with your family and friends.
5.Tea Appreciation: Tea is an essential part of Chinese culture, and during the Mid-Autumn Festival, it's common to enjoy various types of tea, such as green tea or oolong tea. Gather around a teapot and have a tea appreciation session with your loved ones.
6.Riddles and Games: Another fun activity during the festival is to solve riddles. Write some riddles or find riddle books specifically designed for the Mid-Autumn Festival. Challenge your friends and family members to solve themand enjoy the intellectual stimulation.
7.Cultural Performances: Attend or organize cultural performances like dragon dances, lion dances, or traditional music and dance performances. These performances add to the festive atmosphere and provide entertainment for everyone.
8.Sharing Stories and Legends: Share the story of Chang'e, Hou Yi, and the Jade Rabbit with your children or friends. Teach them about the cultural and historical significance of the festival, keeping the traditions alive.
In a word, the most important aspect of celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival is to cherish your family and loved ones, show gratitude for the harvest, and enjoy the beauty of the moon together.
Post time: Sep-26-2023
