Introduction:
On September 17, 2024, the full moon will light up the night sky and millions of people around the world will gather to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival. This ancient tradition is deeply rooted in East Asian culture and is a time for family reunions, thanksgiving, and sharing mooncakes under the moonlight.
The history of the Mid-Autumn Festival can be traced back to the Shang Dynasty more than 3,000 years ago. It is celebrated in countries such as China, Vietnam, South Korea and Japan. It marks the end of the autumn harvest and is a time to give thanks for the harvest season. The festival is also steeped in mythology, with the most famous legend being that of Chang’e, the moon goddess who lived in a palace on the moon.
Present:
The festival will be even more special in 2024, with a variety of events planned to honor this cherished tradition. In China, cities such as Beijing and Shanghai will host grand lantern exhibitions that light up the streets with intricate designs and vibrant colors. Families gather together to enjoy traditional meals, with mooncakes taking center stage. These round pastries are filled with sweet or savory fillings and symbolize unity and wholeness.
Similar celebrations take place in Vietnam, where children parade through the streets holding colorful lanterns in the shapes of stars, animals and flowers. Vietnamese also celebrate with lion dances, which are believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.
summaries:
Tsukimi, or “moon viewing,” in Japan, is a more low-key activity focused on appreciating the beauty of the moon. People gather to enjoy seasonal foods such as dumplings and chestnuts and compose poems inspired by the moon.
The 2024 Mid-Autumn Festival is not only a celebration of the harvest and the moon, but also a testament to lasting cultural heritage and people’s unity. When the full moon rises, it will shed its gentle light into a world filled with joy, gratitude, and harmony.
Post time: Sep-19-2024