The Mid-autumn Festival, also known as Reunion Festival, is one of the top three traditional Chinese festivals. In addition to moon cakes, the festival is known for the custom of worshipping Lady Moon, just as in the mountainous Shiyan area, in northwest Hubei province.

The worshipping of "Lady Moon" in Mid-autumn Festival

Celebrate reunion: When the full moon rises, women of each household jointly or separately offer sacrifices in front of their gates to Lady Moon. Pasting auspicious patterns cut out of red paper onto cakes and fruits, lighting red candles and burning incenses are some of the rituals performed. Maidens then pray for ideal husbands, the newly-married pray for a baby and the middle aged and elder women pray for family harmony and good health. Pray for good health: The legend goes that Lady Moon is the patron of children, so families with kids would offer sacrifices to her on the Mid-autumn Festival. They would pray for good health, safety and happiness for their children. When the ceremony is completed, the offerings are shared by family members, symbolizing family reunion.

Eat moon cakes, pomegranates, red dates, grapes and Chinese chestnuts: Moon cakes and pomegranates are favorite foods during the festival. Moon cakes are processed in various ways, including egg yolk crisp with mung beans and crystal sugar, and are usually presented as gifts for the festival.