The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Mooncake Festival, will light up the night of September 17, 2024 with a blend of ancient traditions and contemporary celebrations.

Celebrated for over 3,000 years, this festival has deep roots in Chinese history and culture.

The origins of this festival date back to ancient China, where it was originally a royal ritual honoring the moon and marking the harvest season.

People believed that worshipping the moon would ensure a fruitful harvest and good fortune for the coming year.

Today, the significance of the holiday has evolved from its agricultural roots to a celebration of family unity and well-being.

In Binondo, Manila’s Chinatown, the Mid-Autumn Festival turns into a vibrant celebration of Chinese-Filipino culture. The neighborhood buzzes with activity as lanterns and colorful decorations transform the streets.

Filipino-Chinese associations in the Philippines also hold their own gatherings and celebrations for the Mid-Autumn Festival. In Baguio City, the festival is officially recognized as an annual event under Ordinance 90, s. 2023.

At the heart of the festivities are mooncakes, round pastries that symbolize wholeness and harmony. Traditionally filled with sweet or savory ingredients such as lotus seed paste and salted egg yolk, mooncakes are more than just a treat: they are a symbol of togetherness.

During the festival, mooncakes are exchanged between family and friends as a token of good wishes and unity.

Local bakeries are offering inventive mooncake flavors like ube, mango, and milk custard, showcasing a delicious fusion of Filipino and Chinese culinary traditions. Several well-known local brands and bakeries offer mooncakes for the Mid-Autumn Festival, including the famous Kamuning Bakery, Eng Bee Tin, Far Eastern Mooncake, and Polland Hopia.

Lanterns are also an important festive element of the festival. From traditional lantern making to lively public demonstrations, they add a magical touch to the festivities.

The Mid-Autumn Festival is associated with the legend of Chang’e, the moon goddess who is said to live on the moon with her rabbit companion. In honor of this legend, families set tables with mooncakes and candles, hoping that Chang’e will grant their wishes.

Among Filipinos of Chinese descent, the dice game Pua Tiong Chiu is a unique activity during the festival. Players roll dice to win mooncake prizes, with matching “fours” or “fives” earning the biggest rewards. The game, which originated in Fujian Province, China, adds a fun and competitive element to the celebrations.

As the Mid-Autumn Festival approaches, it’s a great time to enjoy the traditions and modern practices that bring people together. From sharing mooncakes to admiring lanterns to playing festive games, the celebration offers families and communities a chance to unite and wish for prosperity.

The blend of ancient traditions and new practices not only enriches people’s lives, but also supports local businesses, making the cultural richness of the festival shine for all.