Food, culture & tradition: Everything you need to know about Mid-autumn Festival
MANILA, Philippines — Mid-autumn or Mooncake Festival is one of the most celebrated occasions in East Asia, especially in China. It is said to have been celebrated for about 1,300 years now, with its roots tracing back to the Tang Dynasty.
The celebration starts on the 15th day of August in the Lunar Calendar, which coincidentally falls on China’s National Day this year.
Traditional mid-autumn feast
China is known for its vibrant celebrations, coupled with scrumptious meals made with the best ingredients.
The standout is a freshly baked mooncake, which symbolizes family unity, health, and happiness. Duck should also be served on the table. While this tradition is tied to an old folk tale, eating duck has been observed since it has plenty of health benefits, according to traditional Chinese medicine. Resting mightily on the side is a serving of crabs. Crabs lay eggs around this season as well, making them extra delicious.
Pomelo is also bountifully harvested during this time of the year. It represents blessings for children and grandchildren. It is often shared on a fruit platter with family and friends.
Festivities
Since families would often come together during this time, Chinese people take this opportunity to bond with their loved ones. It often begins with families reuniting over an abundant feast, capping it with delicious mooncakes. As the night grows, families would gather around to admire the full moon and lanterns.
Legend of hero Hou Yi and Lady Chang’e flying to the moon
Several legends about the moon are widely tied and told during the celebration. Among the most popular is a love story about Hou Yi and Chang’e flying to the moon.
Legend says that there used to be 10 suns in the sky. It caused drought and made life hard for the people. With his strength, Hou Yi shot down nine of the 10 suns.
He then married Chang’e and lived a peaceful life. For his chivalry, the Queen of Heaven bestowed upon Hou Yi an elixir that would allow him to come to heaven and become a god. He brought the elixir to his wife and asked her to keep it.
While Hou Yi was out hunting, villain Pengmeng found out about the elixir and broke into the couple’s home, demanding Chang’e to hand over the elixir.
Desperate, Chang’e swallowed the elixir and flew to the moon, the closest he can be to Hou Yi. Hou Yi missed the love of his life and would place his favorite food on the table on the day of the full moon.
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