The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is one of the most important traditional festivals in China. It falls on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, when the moon is believed to be at its fullest and brightest. The festival's origin can be traced back to ancient China's worship of the moon.
The legend behind the Mid-Autumn Festival dates back over 3,000 years ago during the Zhou Dynasty. The story revolves around Chang'e, the Moon Goddess of Immortality, and her husband Houyi, a talented archer. It is said that the world was once plagued by ten suns, causing great suffering to people. To save humanity, Houyi bravely shot down nine suns and was rewarded with an elixir of immortality. However, he didn't consume it because he didn't want to leave his beloved wife alone. One day, while Houyi was out, his apprentice tried to steal the elixir. In order to protect it, Chang'e swallowed the elixir and flew to the moon, where she became the Moon Goddess. Since then, people have started to worship Chang'e on the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival involves various customs and traditions. One of the most important aspects is the family reunion. During this time, family members from near and far gather together to enjoy a splendid feast. The feast usually includes various traditional dishes such as mooncakes, a symbol of reunion and harmony. Mooncakes are round pastries filled with sweet or savory ingredients, with different regions in China having their own unique styles. It is customary to exchange mooncakes among family members and friends as a token of well-wishes.
Another popular custom during the Mid-Autumn Festival is admiring the moon. On this night, people venture outdoors, usually in parks or open areas, to appreciate the full moon. It is believed that the moon is at its brightest and most beautiful during this time. Families often bring with them tables and chairs and set up elaborate meals while enjoying the moon's radiance. Children, in particular, have fun carrying colorful lanterns and walking around with them, creating a vibrant sight. Lantern riddles are also a common activity during the festival. Riddles are written on lanterns, and participants have to guess the answers to win prizes.
中秋节翻译In recent years, the Mid-Autumn Festival has also become an occasion for cultural exchange and promotion of traditional Chinese culture. Many countries with a Chinese diaspora hold events and celebrations during this time, showcasing traditional performances, music, and food.
Overall, the Mid-Autumn Festival is a significant part of Chinese culture, symbolizing family unity, hope, and prosperity. It is a time when people express their love and gratitude for their loved ones, paying tribute to the celestial beauty of the moon.
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