Traditional mooncakes and tea for Mid-Autumn Festival celebration
ChinaMid-Autumn FestivalMoon FestivalChina

Mid-Autumn Festival 2025: Complete Guide to China's Moon Festival

November 3, 20248 min read

Discover the traditions of the Mid-Autumn Festival, from mooncakes and lanterns to family reunions under the harvest moon.

Mid-Autumn Festival: Celebrating the Harvest Moon

The Mid-Autumn Festival (中秋�?, also known as the Moon Festival, is one of the most important holidays on the Chinese calendar. Celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, it falls when the moon is at its fullest and brightest.

Mid-Autumn Festival 2025

  • Date: October 6, 2025
  • Public Holiday: China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, Vietnam, South Korea
  • Origins and Legends

    Chang'e and the Moon

    The most popular legend tells of Chang'e, who consumed an immortality pill and floated to the moon, where she lives with a jade rabbit.

    Historical Significance

    The festival dates back over 3,000 years to moon worship ceremonies during the Shang Dynasty.

    Traditional Celebrations

    Mooncakes

    Round pastries symbolizing the full moon and family reunion:

  • Traditional: Lotus seed paste with salted egg yolk
  • Modern: Snow skin, ice cream, chocolate variations
  • Exchanging mooncakes strengthens relationships
  • Lanterns

    Children carry colorful lanterns, and large lantern displays decorate public spaces.

    Moon Gazing

    Families gather outdoors to admire the full moon and enjoy the autumn evening together.

    Celebrations Across Asia

  • Vietnam: Children's festival with lantern processions
  • Korea (Chuseok): Three-day harvest celebration
  • Japan (Tsukimi): Moon viewing with dango offerings
  • Taiwan: BBQs have become a modern tradition
  • Planning Your Mid-Autumn Festival Calendar

  • Order or make mooncakes in advance
  • Plan family gatherings
  • Prepare or buy lanterns for children
  • Find a good moon-viewing location
  • Learn about the legends and history
  • The Mid-Autumn Festival is a celebration of family unity, gratitude for the harvest, and appreciation of nature's beauty.

    Tags

    #Mid-Autumn Festival#Moon Festival#China#Mooncakes

    View Calendar

    Share Article