Mid-Autumn Festival in Taiwan

The Day

The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month in the Chinese calendar. It typically falls in September or October. This public holiday is one of the most important traditional events for Taiwanese people.

History

The festival has roots in ancient Chinese moon worship and has been celebrated for over 3,000 years. It commemorates a time when emperors would offer sacrifices to the moon. The practice spread throughout China and became a folk festival during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), celebrating harvest and family reunions under the full moon.

Traditions

• Mooncakes: Eating mooncakes, a round pastry filled with sweet or savory ingredients, is central to celebration. The round shape symbolizes completeness and unity.
• Pomelos: People often eat pomelos, another round fruit, which is also associated with blessings and family unity.
• Barbecues: In Taiwan specifically, outdoor barbecuing has become a modern tradition where families and friends gather to cook and eat together.
• Lanterns: Lanterns are displayed and carried by children or set afloat on bodies of water.
• Moon Gazing: Appreciating the beauty of the full moon is a customary practice that reflects ancient beliefs in lunar deities.

Activities

On this day, people in Taiwan typically:

• Enjoy family reunions over dinner
• Give gifts such as mooncakes and fruit to friends and relatives
• Participate in outdoor activities like barbecuing
• Visit temples to pray and make offerings

Taiwanese celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival with joyous gatherings, reflecting both its rich historical significance and contemporary cultural practices.