Mid-Autumn Festival in China: Where and How to Experience It

 

Mid-Autumn Festival or Moon Festival is one of the most popular traditional festivals of China. It is celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month which is usually in September or early October and it is the day for families to come together for moon-gazing, eating moon cakes and watching the moon.

 I was lucky enough to see this festival when I was travelling to China and what impressed me the most was the warmth of the festivity.

 It’s not noisy and showy like Chinese New Year, it’s more quiet, more poetic and more symbolic. People come together with loved ones, they tell stories and admire the round glowing moon that denotes togetherness.

 Note: If you want to experience a stress-free trip then you should always book Short Stay Parking Stansted like me.

Where Do You Need To Go in China To Experience This Beautiful Tradition to the Fullest?

 Beijing is a good place to start. Parks such as Beihai and the Summer Palace become crowded by locals who are having picnics and watching the moon rise over the lake. Conventional performances and lantern shows give a festive flavor to historical settings.

 


Hangzhou’s West Lake is unforgettable for something really magical during Mid-Autumn. I became part of hundreds of families around the water listening to soft music and paper lanterns floating. The shine of moonlight on the lake was like a living painting.

 

Xi’an has an ancient city and a rich culture and provides a more traditional atmosphere. Local plays, riddles on lanterns, and street stalls that sell fresh mooncakes make the old quarters full of timeless charm.

 

Hong Kong also celebrates the festival with a new twist. Victoria Park has a spectacular Lantern Carnival, and if you are close to Tai Hang, you have to check out the fire dragon dance.

 

No matter where you are, do not forget to taste different kinds of mooncakes, from the classic lotus seed paste to newfangled flavors such as green tea or chocolate. And most importantly, slow down, look up at the moon, and share the moment with people.

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