Mid-Autumn Festival Holiday in Taiwan

Date: The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar with a full moon at night. It typically falls in September or October of the Gregorian calendar.

History: The festival has roots in ancient Chinese moon worship and has been celebrated since the early Tang dynasty. Over time, it gained significance as a time for family reunions and harvest celebrations.

Traditions:

• Mooncakes: The most iconic tradition is the eating of mooncakes, which are round pastries filled with sweet or savory ingredients.
• Pomelos: Eating and wearing pomelo rinds on one's head is another unique tradition associated with good luck.
• Barbecue: In Taiwan, it's become popular to have outdoor barbecues as a way of celebrating the festival with friends and family.
• Lanterns: People also light lanterns, which symbolize light and brightness. Children often make and carry their own lanterns.
• Appreciating the Moon: The practice of observing and appreciating the full moon is a key part of the celebration. Families gather to view the moon's beauty and reflect on life.

Activities: On this day, people in Taiwan often: 1. Spend time with family members. 2. Exchange gifts such as mooncakes. 3. Attend various local celebrations or festivals that may include dragon or lion dances, traditional games, and musical performances.

The Mid-Autumn Festival is not only a time for cultural observances but also an official public holiday in Taiwan, allowing everyone to participate fully in its traditions.