The Double Ninth Festival, also known as Chongyang Festival, is a traditional Chinese holiday celebrated on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. Here's an overview of its origin and ways of celebration in English:
**Origin:**
The Double Ninth Festival has its roots in ancient China, and it is believed to have originated from the Zhou Dynasty (1046-256 BCE). One of the theories suggests that the day was originally a farmers' festival, marking the end of the grain harvest. Another theory is that it has connections to the ancient practice of avoiding evil spirits and bad luck by climbing mountains and avoiding certain activities on this day. There is also a traditional Chinese belief that on this day, the elderly are particularly vulnerable to harm, thus the festival is seen as a time to honor the elderly.
**Celebration Ways:**
1. **Hiking and Mountain Climbing:** The most common activity associated with the Double Ninth Festival is climbing mountains. This tradition is believed to be rooted in the belief that climbing mountains helps to ward off diseases and longevity. The older people in a family often go hiking together.
2. **Picking Chrysanthemum Flowers:** Chrysanthemums, or "manghua," are associated with the festival and are believed to be beneficial for the eyes. It's customary for people to visit chrysanthemum gardens, pick the flowers, and drink chrysanthemum tea, which is thought to be healthy.
3. **Making Chongyang Cake:** Chongyang Cake, also known as Double Ninth Cake or重阳糕, is a traditional pastry made in various shapes and filled with sweet or savory ingredients. It's a symbol of celebrating the festival and is often gifted among family and friends.
4. **Frying Zongzi (Rice Dumplings):** Although commonly associated with the Dragon Boat Festival, in some regions, zongzi are also fried on the Double Ninth Festival. This is because fried food is believed to aid digestion, and as the festival is close to the autumn harvest, it's an appropriate time to celebrate with food.
5. **Wearing Cornelian Cherries:** Cornelian cherries, or "mangxiao," are worn by some as a decoration or a talisman. They are thought to have medicinal properties and are believed to ward off evil spirits.
6. **Prayer for Longevity:** Many people visit temples or offer prayers at home to their ancestors and deities, particularly asking for longevity for the elderly family members.
7. **Honor the Elderly:** The festival is also a time to show respect and care for the elderly. Families often gather to celebrate and partake in activities together.
The Double Ninth Festival is a blend of traditional customs and contemporary practices, and its celebration can vary from region to region across China.
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