5 Things You Need to Know About Mid-Autumn Festival

The Mid-Autumn Festival is just around the corner! As we approach one of China's most cherished and important festivals, take a moment to learn about the traditions that make it so special. 🥮

Mid-Autumn Festival Q&A

              

Q: What is the Name of the Festival?

The Mid-Autumn Festival, known as Zhōngqiū Jié (中秋节) in Chinese, is a significant celebration in Chinese culture. It takes place when the full moon is at its brightest, which is why it's often called the "Moon Festival."

中秋节

Zhōngqiū Jié

Mid-Autumn Festival

Q: What is the Legend Behind the Festival?‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍

You might have heard from your Chinese friends about the Moon Goddess, or Chang'e (嫦娥 Cháng'é). According to legend, Chang'e swallowed an elixir of immortality meant for her husband, Hou Yi, a heroic archer. After taking the elixir, she ascended to the Moon, where she became an immortal goddess. 

The story of Chang'e is closely tied to the Mid-Autumn Festival, as some versions say she flew to the Moon on the very day the festival is celebrated.

Q: When is the Festival Celebrated?

Zhōngqiū Jié (中秋节) is celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar when the moon is at its fullest. 🌕

In 2024, the festival falls on Tuesday, September 17th.

Q: What are the Traditions Behind the Festival?

01. Admire the Full-Moon

The Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for family reunions, much like Thanksgiving in the West. Families gather to share meals, enjoy mooncakes, and spend time together under the full moon.

赏月

shǎng yuè

to admire the full moon 

02. Lantern Riddles

Guessing riddles on hanging lanterns is one of the traditional activities Chinese people do during the Mid-Autumn festival.

灯谜

dēngmí 

lantern(s)

猜灯谜

cāi dēngmí 

to guess riddles on hanging lanterns

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Q: Why Do People Eat Mooncakes?

Sharing and eating mooncakes (月饼 yuèbǐng) is the most iconic way to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival. These round treats resemble the full moon, symbolize unity, and are often shared among family and friends.

 

月饼

yuèbǐng

mooncake(s)

Take it Further!

    

Come and learn how to make mooncakes at the Snowy Mooncake Making Workshop at That's Mandarin! 🥮

⏰ Friday, September 13, 19:00

‍📍 That's Mandarin Beijing & Shanghai

To join the event, sign up by scanning the QR code on the poster:

Now you've uncovered the rich significance behind the Mid-Autumn Festival traditions! We extend our warmest wishes for a meaningful and family-oriented 中秋节 (Zhōngqiū Jié)!

🥮🍂‍

中秋节快乐！

Zhōngqiū Jié Kuàilè!

中秋节 (Zhōngqiū Jié) • Mid-Autumn Festival

快乐 (kuàilè) • happy; merry; joyful; cheerful

Practice with Teachers

              

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