Hang Ma street in Hanoi with colorful lanterns - Source : Collected
The moon festival, also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival, is an important celebration in many countries in East and Southeast Asia.
A journey through time
The roots of Tết Trung Thu delve into a distant past, where our ancestors observed the moon with wonder, attributing mystical powers to it. But make no mistake, this festival was not just a simple lunar admiration session! It was mainly an occasion to celebrate the rice harvest, a true cornerstone of family prosperity. The more beautiful the moon, the more rejoicing - after all, who wouldn't want to celebrate a good harvest?
Cuoi waiting for the day to return to his world - Source : Internet
The moon, the star of the evening
At the heart of Tết Trung Thu, the moon reigns supreme. It is not just a bright celestial body in the sky, but a powerful symbol of reunion, peace, and prosperity. Vietnamese people believe that during this magical night, the moon comes closer to Earth, allowing separated families to reunite, if only in spirit. And for the romantics, it's the perfect moment for a love declaration under the moonlight!
But... What would a moon festival be without a good story to tell?
Let me tell you in a few words (there are other versions, this is the one I know best).
The Legend of Chú Cuội: A tale that brightens the night
Imagine a young man, Cuội - a buffalo herder by trade - who discovers a magical tree capable of resurrecting the dead. Impressed, he uproots it to take it home. But beware, here's the twist: the tree only grows if watered with pure water. One day, his wife, unaware of this rule, waters it with dirty water. The tree then flies towards the moon, carrying the poor Cuội who clung to it! Since then, it is said that Chú Cuội sits under this tree on the moon, nostalgically looking at the Earth and waiting to be able to return home. This is why, every year, by lighting their lanterns, children (both young and old) show the way back to Earth to our unfortunate buffalo herder.
This captivating story reminds children (and adults...) of the importance of home, family, and perhaps also of following instructions when it comes to magical trees!
There is also the legend of Hằng Nga (Chang'e in Chinese), a legend shared between Vietnamese and Chinese cultures, telling the story of Hằng Nga, the Moon Goddess. According to the myth, she was the wife of Hậu Nghệ, a legendary archer who had received an elixir of immortality. Hằng Nga drank the elixir and flew to the moon, where she now lives alone, symbolizing solitude and beauty.
Mooncakes are best enjoyed with a hot cup of green tea - Source : Internet
A feast for the eyes and taste buds
What would a festival be without food? The bánh trung thu, these delicious mooncakes, are the culinary stars of the event. Round like the moon itself, they symbolize family unity. Their history is as flavorful as their taste: once used to hide secret messages during a revolt against the Mongols, they are now a symbol of a sweet rebellion against daily routine!
Did you know that ? The two most common moon cake recipes are Banh deo (soft and sticky cakes with a white glutinous rice crust) and Banh nuong (baked cakes with a golden crust). The savory moon cake recipe is more complex than the sweet one, consisting of a dozen ingredients such as pork fat, sausages, jams, and various types of seeds and nuts. The sweet filling, on the other hand, is made from a single ingredient: mung bean paste or lotus seed paste.
A colorful spectacle
Tết Trung Thu is also a visual festival. Imagine streets bustling with parades of children carrying colorful lanterns, often in animal shapes. And what about the lion dance (múa lân), a breathtaking performance that dazzles the eyes of both young and old?
Parading for Tet Trung Thu - Source : Internet
A tradition that crosses borders
In 2024, Tết Trung Thu continues to shine brightly. Whether you are in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or even on the other side of the world, you can feel the spirit of this festival. The Vietnamese diaspora has taken this tradition with them, sharing it with the whole world. It's as if the moon itself had decided to travel, spreading its light and joy wherever it goes!
Did you know that ? This year, we will celebrate Tet Trung Thu on Tue, Sep 17, 2024.
Traditional Unicorn Dance for Mid-Autumn Festival - Source : Internet
The final word
In the end, Tết Trung Thu is much more than just a festival. It is a magical moment where families reunite, where traditions are perpetuated, and where the moon reminds us that, despite our differences, we are all united under the same sky. So the next time you see a full moon, think of Tết Trung Thu and the joy it brings to millions of people. Who knows, you might feel like biting into a mooncake and dancing under the stars!
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