The Mid-Autumn Festival (中秋节) — also called the Mooncake Festival — is one of the most beloved holidays in Chinese culture, second only to Chinese New Year. It celebrates the harvest full moon, family reunion, and gratitude. It falls on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month; in 2026 that's in late September. Here's the history.
See the Mid-Autumn Festival holiday page for the exact date, or China's holiday calendar.
What is the Mid-Autumn Festival?
Held on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, the festival falls on the night of the brightest full moon of autumn. Traditionally it was a harvest celebration, giving thanks for the year's crops — and over centuries it became a time for family reunion under the round, full moon, which symbolises togetherness and completeness.
The legend of Chang'e
The most famous legend is that of Chang'e (嫦娥), the Moon Goddess. In the best-known version, her husband, the archer Hou Yi, was given an elixir of immortality. Chang'e ended up drinking it and floated up to the Moon, where she has lived ever since. People gaze at the full moon to remember her, and the festival honours this story of love and separation.
Mooncakes and traditions
- Mooncakes (月饼) — dense, round pastries filled with lotus-seed paste, red bean, or salted egg yolk (representing the moon) — given to family and friends.
- Gazing at the full moon and family gatherings.
- Lanterns — carrying and displaying bright lanterns, especially for children.
- Drinking tea and, in some regions, pomelos.
Why the date changes each year
Because the festival is set by the lunar calendar (15th day of the 8th lunar month), its date in the Gregorian calendar shifts each year, usually falling in September or early October. Check the holiday page for the exact date.
Quick answers
What is the Mid-Autumn Festival? A Chinese harvest and family-reunion festival on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, celebrated with mooncakes under the full moon.
Why is it called the Mooncake Festival? Because mooncakes — round pastries symbolising the full moon — are the festival's signature food and gift.
Who is Chang'e? The Moon Goddess of Chinese legend, whose story of ascending to the moon is central to the festival.
When is the Mid-Autumn Festival 2026? It falls in late September 2026 — see the holiday page for the exact date.