The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival or Mooncake Festival, is a traditional celebration deeply rooted in Chinese culture. This festival is observed around the autumn equinox on the 15th of the 8th lunar month in the Chinese calendar. It holds significance in various East and Southeast Asian countries, where similar festivities are observed.
In Japan, the Tsukimi (月見) festival, meaning 'moon viewing,' aligns with the Mid-Autumn Festival according to the Chinese lunisolar calendar. In Korea, Chuseok (추석; 秋夕; lit. autumn eve) is celebrated concurrently, emphasizing the autumnal theme. Vietnam marks this occasion as Tết Trung Thu (節中秋 in Chữ Nôm), also known as The Children's Festival, with a focus on the involvement of children in the festivities and traditional songs.
In some regions of China, alternate names like Eighth Month Festival and Festival of Unity are used. In Guangzhou, it is referred to as the Mooncake Festival due to its association with moon worship and moon viewing, especially during the full moon night. Additionally, the Lantern Festival moniker is used in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, although it is distinct from the Chinese Lantern Festival that occurs on the 15th day of the first month of the Chinese calendar.
In Cambodia, the Bon Om Touk, or The Water and Moon Festival, occurs over three days in November, reflecting a unique cultural adaptation of the traditional Mid-Autumn Festival.
While there are diverse regional names and practices associated with this festival, 'Mid-Autumn Festival' is the commonly accepted term in English to refer to this celebratory occasion, while 'Zhōngqiū Jié' is used in Chinese.
This year, celebrate the fall harvest by stopping by EAS to learn about our department events, programs, and courses. We will also be giving out a limited number of traditional treats. It's a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural traditions of the Mid-Autumn Festival while discovering the educational offerings and vibrant community at EAS. Don't miss out on this festive occasion to connect, learn, and savor delicious delights!