For thousands of years, the Chinese people have related the
vicissitudes of life to changes of the moon as it waxes and wanes; joy
and sorrow, parting and reunion. Because the full moon is round and
symbolizes reunion, the Mid-Autumn Festival is also known as the
festival of reunion. All family members try to get together on this
special day. Those who can not return home watch the bright moonlight
and feel deep longing for their loved ones.
Today, festivities centered about the Mid-Autumn Festival are more
varied. After a family reunion dinner, many people like to go out to
attend special performances in parks or on public squares.
People in different parts of China have different ways to celebrate
the Mid-Autumn Festival. In Guangzhou in South China, a huge lantern
show is a big attraction for local citizens. Thousands of differently
shaped lanterns are lit, forming a fantastic contrast with the bright
moonlight.
In East China’s Zhejiang Province, watching the flood tide of the Qian-
tang River during the Mid-Autumn Festival is not only a must for local
people, but also an attraction for those from other parts of the
country. The ebb and flow of tides coincide with the waxing and waning
of the moon as it exerts a strong gravitational pull. In mid autumn, ...