What Is an August Moon?
August Moon refers to the fifteenth night of the eighth month in the Chinese calender. It is the center of a Chinese celebration, which is often referred to as the August Moon Festival or the Mid-Autumn Festival.
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History
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The August Moon Festival entails worshipping the moon. Called "Xi Yue" in Chinese, the custom can be traced as far back as 2000 B.C.
Harvest
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Since grain and vegetables were harvested at this particular time of the year, the August Moon custom came to be a harvest festival. Mooncakes are the most popular food item eaten and shared during this festival.
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Legends
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Several Chinese legends involve the moon, which is perceived as being at its brightest and roundest on the day of the festival. The most famous of the tales is about the Lady of the Moon, an otherworldly maiden that children depend on to grant their wishes.
Connections
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Because of the moon's level of brightness on the night of the festival, the Chinese see it as triggering the forging and renewing of all kinds of friendships---from platonic to romantic ones.
Misconceptions
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According to the Western calender, the August Moon Festival actually does not occur in August. Rather, it occurs between the second week of September and the second week of October. Thus, calling it the Mid-Autumn Festival may be more appropriate.
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