Traditions

Mooncakes are a sweet dessert typically filled with lotus seed or red bean paste. A wide range of other ingredients may include a whole egg yolk inside, symbolizing the full moon’s brilliance. Lanterns of every shape and hue illuminate the night and pay homage to Chang’e. Celebrate with family and friends, but take a moment to recall those not present—they are likely gazing upon the same moon!

Lady of the Moon - Chang’e

At the heart of the Moon Festival lies a legendary tale of love and bravery. Enter the world of Chang’e and her husband Hou Yi, when the Earth suffered under the scorching heat of ten suns. A skilled archer, Hou Yi shot down nine suns and brought balance to the world. His valor caught the attention of the Heavenly Queen Mother, who rewarded him with an elixir of immortality. But Hou Yi chose to grow old with his wife and refused to drink the elixir. Alas, fate had other plans. A jealous intruder sought the elixir, and in a desperate bid to protect it, Chang’e consumed it herself.

The elixir granted eternal life—on the moon. Upon drinking it, she floated into the sky and transformed into the Moon Goddess. Since then, the moon shines brightest on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, marking the start of Moon Festival celebrations.