The Mid Autumn Festival is approaching, which falls on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar and dates back more than 3000 years.
Its name is pronounced in Mandarin as Zhōngqiū Jié (simplified Chinese: 中秋节; traditional Chinese: 中秋節).It is one of the most important holidays in Chinese culture; its popularity is on par with that of Chinese New Year.

Lanterns of all size and shapes, are carried and displayed – symbolic beacons that light people’s path to prosperity and good fortune. Mooncakes, a rich pastry typically filled with sweet-bean, egg yolk, meat or lotus-seed paste, are traditionally eaten during this festival.

The festival celebrates three fundamental concepts that are closely connected:
Gathering, such as family and friends coming together, or harvesting crops for the festival. It is said the Moon is the brightest and roundest on this day which means family reunion. Consequently, this is the main reason why the festival is thought to be important.
Thanksgiving, to give thanks for the harvest, or for harmonious unions
Praying (asking for conceptual or material satisfaction), such as for babies, a spouse, beauty, longevity, or for a good future.

Happy Mid Autumn Festival to all – 中秋节快乐!