Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as Moon Festival, is a traditional Chinese holiday that celebrates the harvest season and family reunion. It is marked by moon gazing, lighting lanterns, eating mooncakes, and sharing time with loved ones.
Related terms
Mooncakes: These round pastries filled with sweet or savory fillings are traditionally eaten during Mid-Autumn Festival to symbolize unity and good fortune.
Lanterns: Colorful lanterns are lit up during Mid-Autumn Festival to create a festive atmosphere and guide wayward spirits back home.
Moon Gazing: This activity involves appreciating the full moon during Mid-Autumn Festival while contemplating on life's blessings and expressing wishes for the future.