Title: The Origin and Customs of the Mid-Autumn Festival
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, which usually falls in September or October. This festival has a rich history and various customs that have been passed down through generations.
**Origin of the Mid-Autumn Festival**
The origin of the Mid-Autumn Festival can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). According to legend, the festival was established to celebrate the moon's fullness and to honor the moon goddess, Chang'e. Another story tells of the famous general, Hou Yi, who shot down nine suns to save the world from a solar disaster. His wife, Chang'e, swallowed an elixir of immortality, which caused her to float to the moon. Since then, people have celebrated the festival to pay tribute to Chang'e and to appreciate the beauty of the moon.
**Customs of the Mid-Autumn Festival**
1. **Moon Viewing**: The most significant custom of the Mid-Autumn Festival is moon viewing. Families gather together to enjoy the full moon, which is believed to be the brightest and roundest of the year. They often sit on the balcony or in the courtyard, facing the moon, and appreciate its beauty.
2. **Eating Mooncakes**: Mooncakes are the traditional food of the Mid-Autumn Festival. These round pastries symbolize the full moon and are filled with sweet or savory ingredients such as lotus seed paste, red bean paste, or meat. Sharing mooncakes with family and friends is an essential part of the festival.
3. **Lanterns**: Another custom is to hang lanterns in the evening. These lanterns come in various shapes and sizes, but the most common are those shaped like the moon or the rabbit, which is said to live on the moon. Children often carry lanterns and play with them in the streets.
4. **Dragon and Lion Dances**: In some areas, dragon and lion dances are performed to bring good luck and fortune. These dances are accompanied by the beat of drums and cymbals, creating a festive atmosphere.
5. **Pumpkin Carving**: In some regions, people carve pumpkins into lanterns. They use the seeds to make a soup or a dish, and the pumpkin flesh is used to create the lanterns.
6. **Poetry and Music**: The Mid-Autumn Festival is also a time for poetry and music. Many ancient poems have been written about the beauty of the moon and the joy of the festival. People often recite these poems and sing traditional songs.
The Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for families to come together, appreciate the beauty of nature, and celebrate their cultural heritage. Its rich history and customs have made it one of the most beloved festivals in China.
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