The August Moon Festival or Mid-Autumn Festival is one of the most celebrated Chinese holidays.
It is held on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month. Chinese families celebrate the end of the harvest
season with a big feast. Unlike the American Thanksgiving dinner,
the Chinese have mooncakes instead of
grandma' apple pie. Friends and relatives also send mooncakes
to each other as a way of giving thanks.
Chinese legends say
that the moon is at its brightest and roundest on this day. Under this bright autumn moon, friendships are made and
renewed. It is perfect for a romantic
rendezvous. For many years, Chinese poets write about long lost
lovers finding their way to each other on this special night.
The
August Moon Festival is often called the Women's Festival. The
moon symbolizes beauty and elegance. While
Westerners worship the sun (yang or male) for its power, people in the
Far East admire the moon. The moon is the 'yin' or female principle and
it is a trusted friend.
In fact, many ancient August Moon folktales are about a
moon maiden. On the 15th night of the 8th lunar moon, little children on
earth can see a lady on the moon. On this magical occasion,
children who make wishes to the Lady on the Moon
will
find their dreams come true.
