Get steeped in the legends, culture and tea of China by celebrating the Moon Festival. Wound up in centuries of stories and tradition, this day is China’s way of celebrating the harvest. Dating back to the Zhou Dynasty (1046 – 256 BC), the Moon Festival occurs when the moon is at its fullest following the Chinese Lunar Calendar, which means it falls on September 8th this year. Take a moment to enjoy a cup of one of our finest Chinese Teas such as Jade Oolong or Organic China Breakfast, and steep yourself in a few of the legends surrounding this second most celebrated day in China.
Mooncake and Other Customs
One of the legends that is now a traditional part of the Moon Festival is sharing and enjoying mooncake. During the Yuan Dynasty (1271 – 1368 AD), mooncakes were shared to pass secret messages organizing a revolt against oppressive rulers. The following harvest moon, the new leader gave moon cakes to his subordinates, and the tradition stuck.
Today, the Moon Festival is a time of offering sacrifices to the moon. These include round items such as soybeans, watermelons, oranges, grapefruits and wine. The offerings are placed where the moon light touches them. The Chinese word for “round” closely resembles the word for “reunion.” Family members come together in the evening to share a mooncake cut in equal portions. A piece is cut for family members who live far away as well. Prayers are written to the moon and then burned. Interested in tasting mooncake? Check out this recipe.
Traditions differ throughout China and Taiwan. Southern China holds fire dragon dances while children play with festival lanterns. In Shanghai, people burn incense buckets outdoors. And in Taiwan, unmarried girls set off sky lanterns and steal vegetables in hopes of finding a husband.
Check out our selection of Chinese Teas, and celebrate a few of these ancient traditions with us! More Moon Festival customs can be found here. What is your favorite way to celebrate the harvest season?