Title: Mid-Autumn Festival: Customs and Legends
The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is one of the most important traditional festivals in China. It is celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month each year. This essay will discuss the customs and legends associated with this festival.
Customs
1. Mooncakes: One of the most iconic customs of the Mid-Autumn Festival is the consumption of mooncakes. These are round pastries filled with various ingredients, such as lotus seed paste, red bean paste, or salted egg yolk. The round shape of mooncakes symbolizes the full moon, which is the highlight of the festival.
2. Watching the moon: Another popular custom is watching the full moon on the night of the festival. Families gather together on the rooftop or in the courtyard to enjoy the beautiful moonlight and share delicious mooncakes. This tradition dates back to the ancient times when people believed that looking at the moon could bring good luck and fortune.
3. Lighting lanterns: In some regions, people decorate their homes with lanterns in various shapes and colors. This is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the family.
4. Dragon lantern dance: In some areas, the dragon lantern dance is performed as part of the Mid-Autumn Festival. A dragon-shaped lantern, made of bamboo and paper, is paraded through the streets while people dance and play music.
Legends
1. The story of Chang'e: The most famous legend associated with the Mid-Autumn Festival is the tale of Chang'e, the moon goddess. According to the story, there was a beautiful woman named Chang'e who was living on Earth. One day, she swallowed a pill that gave her the ability to fly to the moon. She then lived there, becoming the goddess of the moon.
2. The moon god: In some versions of the legend, there is a moon god who resides on the moon. This god is believed to be the creator of the moon and its beauty.
3. The Rabbit in the moon: Another popular legend is about a rabbit living on the moon. It is said that this rabbit pounds mooncakes for Chang'e and the moon god. The image of the rabbit is often depicted in mooncakes and lanterns during the festival.
Conclusion
The Mid-Autumn Festival is a significant celebration in China, with rich customs and fascinating legends. It is a time for families to come together, enjoy the beauty of the full moon, and share the joy of this special occasion. The festival's traditions and stories have been passed down through generations, ensuring that this cultural heritage will continue to thrive.
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