Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival 2018: A Celebration of Tradition and Culture

The Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival or Zhongqiu Jie in Chinese, is a significant cultural celebration that takes place every year on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month. This year, the festival falls on September 24th. As the people of China embark on a seven-day holiday, tourist attractions will be extremely crowded, and it's essential to plan carefully if you're planning to visit China during this time.

One of the most significant events during the Mid-Autumn Festival is the flag-raising ceremony, which takes place in major cities across the country. The festival also features dance and song performances, firework displays, and cultural exhibits that showcase China's rich heritage. In addition, the People's Republic of China will hold a military parade in its capital city as well as other major cities to commemorate the founding of the nation on October 1st, 1949.

The Mid-Autumn Festival is also an occasion to pay respects to Confucius, a world-renowned philosopher who had a profound impact on Chinese society and culture. A grand ceremony dedicated to Confucius will be held, along with a kung fu competition that showcases the country's martial arts traditions.

The festival has its roots in ancient Chinese tradition, where people would worship ancestors and offer sacrifices during this time of year. Today, the Mid-Autumn Festival is celebrated with traditional foods such as mooncakes, which are served with tea and other delicacies. People also prepare incense, paper-made clothes and furniture, and participate in various cultural activities.

In addition to the Mid-Autumn Festival, China has a rich tradition of honoring its ancestors through various festivals throughout the year. The Hungry Ghost Festival, for example, is celebrated on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month and involves releasing lanterns onto rivers to ward off evil spirits.

The autumn season in China is also marked by the Qufu International Confucius Culture Festival, which takes place from September 26th to October 10th. This festival celebrates the life and teachings of Confucius and features cultural performances, exhibitions, and competitions.

As the weather cools down in November, with temperatures ranging from 13 to 25 degrees Celsius, it's an excellent time to visit China for tourists. The country is also experiencing a period of relative calm, making it an ideal time to explore its many tourist attractions without the crowds that typically flock to popular destinations during peak season.

In conclusion, the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival 2018 is a unique and enriching cultural experience that offers visitors a glimpse into China's rich heritage and traditions. With its vibrant festivals, delicious food, and stunning natural beauty, autumn in China is an unforgettable experience for tourists. So why not plan your trip today and join in the celebrations?

Chinese mid autumn festival 2018