Every autumn, millions of Chinese families celebrate one of the most special dates on their calendar: the Mid-Autumn Festival, known as Zhongqiu Jie (中秋节). The moon, family gatherings, lanterns and traditional mooncakes take centre stage in a festival with centuries of history.
Alongside the Chinese New Year, it is one of the country’s most important traditional celebrations. It is an occasion that allows us to gain an insight into Chinese culture and understand the value placed on concepts such as family, reunion and prosperity.
What is the Mid-Autumn Festival?
The Mid-Autumn Festival is celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth month of the Chinese lunar calendar, a date traditionally associated with a particularly bright and round moon. It is precisely this circular shape that explains much of the symbolism behind the celebration.
In Chinese culture, the circle represents fulfilment, harmony and reunion. That is why, during this time, families try to get together, share a meal and gaze at the moon together. The festival is also known as the Festival of Reunion.
A tradition with over 3,000 years of history
The origins of the Mid-Autumn Festival date back to ancient customs linked to the moon and the harvests. For centuries, the arrival of autumn was a time to give thanks for the harvest and to hold various ceremonies and make offerings.
Over time, these practices evolved into a popular festival. During the Tang and Song dynasties, moon gazing took on great cultural significance and was also reflected in Chinese poetry and art.
Chang’e and the Legend of the Moon
One of the best-known stories associated with the festival is that of Chang’e (嫦娥), the Chinese goddess of the Moon. There are different versions of the legend, but they all revolve around Chang’e, her husband Hou Yi and an elixir of immortality.
According to one of the most popular versions, Chang’e ended up drinking the elixir and ascending to the Moon, where she would remain separated from her husband. This story of love and separation resonates particularly well with one of the central themes of this celebration: the longing to be reunited with loved ones who are far away.
Mooncakes: the flavour of the Mid-Autumn Festival
To talk about the Mid-Autumn Festival is to talk about mooncakes (月饼). Their characteristic round shape symbolises family unity, and it is customary to give them as gifts and share them with family, friends or colleagues.
There is no single type of mooncake. Depending on the region, there are numerous varieties, ranging from traditional recipes with lotus seed or red bean paste to versions with salted egg yolk, nuts, meat and contemporary flavours. Their texture, preparation and appearance also vary according to local tradition.
Lanterns, gatherings and a night under the moon
Lanterns are another of the most recognisable features of this time of year. In various cities, exhibitions and events are organised where you can find lanterns in a multitude of colours, shapes and sizes. Children also take part by carrying their own lanterns.
Family gatherings, however, remain at the heart of the celebrations. Sharing a meal, giving mooncakes as gifts and gazing at the moon are simple gestures steeped in symbolism. For many people living far from their hometowns, the festival is also an opportunity to return home.
When is the Mid-Autumn Festival in 2026?
In 2026, the Mid-Autumn Festival falls on Friday 25 September. The official Chinese calendar designates a three-day holiday period, from 25 to 27 September.
| Festival del Medio Otoño 2026 | Date |
| Festival day | Friday 25 September |
| Official holiday period | 25–27 September |
| Duration | 3 days |
The date changes every year in our calendar because it is determined by the Chinese lunar calendar. In 2025, for example, the festival was held on 6 October, whilst in 2026 it falls earlier, on 25 September.
How is it currently celebrated in China?
Traditions remain very much alive, although the celebration has also adapted to contemporary China. Mooncakes are a good example: alongside the classic recipes, every year we see new designs, flavours and presentations that brands create specifically for the festival.
Cities organise cultural activities, shows and lantern displays, whilst many families make the most of the public holidays to get together or go on holiday. It is also common in companies and organisations to exchange boxes of mooncakes as gifts.
A date we should also be aware of if we work with China
For those of us who have professional relationships with China, being familiar with its main celebrations helps us to better understand the country and to organise our activities in line with its calendar. Furthermore, in 2026, the Mid-Autumn Festival falls very close to the Chinese National Day holidays, which begin on 1 October.
Beyond this practical consideration, at S³ Group we believe that doing business with China also means understanding its culture. And few celebrations reflect the importance of family, tradition and reunion as well as an autumn evening spent under a full moon with a box of mooncakes.
Frequently asked questions about the Mid-Autumn Festival
When is the Mid-Autumn Festival in 2026?
In 2026, it falls on Friday 25 September. The official holiday period runs from 25 to 27 September.
What does the Mid-Autumn Festival mean?
It is a traditional celebration linked to the moon, the harvests and, above all, family reunions.
Why do people eat mooncakes?
Mooncakes are one of the festival’s key symbols. Their round shape represents unity, fulfilment and family reunions.
Who is Chang’e?
Chang’e is the goddess of the Moon in Chinese mythology and the central figure in one of the most popular legends associated with the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Why does the date change every year?
Because it is celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth month of the Chinese lunar calendar. When converted to the Gregorian calendar, the date varies from year to year.
