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Each autumn, the full moon marks the Mid-Autumn Festival – a truly special occasion in many Asian cultures. Beyond the joyful lanterns and lively lion dances for children, it is also a time for families to reunite and share happiness.
The Mid-Autumn moon
and stories shared beneath it
The Mid-Autumn Festival has long been one of the most distinctive celebrations in East Asian culture, especially in Vietnam. On the full moon of the eighth lunar month, the streets glow with lanterns, echo with the vibrant rhythms of lion dances, and are filled with the sweet aroma of mooncakes that capture the very spirit of the season
Image: Eva.vn
Across countries, the Mid-Autumn Festival is tied to many different legends, but in Vietnam, it is most closely associated with Uncle Cuội (“Chú Cuội”) and Lady Hằng (“Chị Hằng”). Uncle Cuội, who once discovered a magical medicinal tree, was carried to the moon, where he now sits beneath a banyan tree. He symbolizes nostalgia for one’s homeland, a longing to return, and the enduring bonds of family. In the Mid-Autumn sky, Lady Hằng shines like gentle moonlight, bringing joy and childhood dreams.
Mid-Autumn tray:
Flavors of the season, colors of reunion
When it comes to the Mid-Autumn Festival, the traditional tray of offerings is indispensable, symbolizing abundance and togetherness. A Mid-Autumn tray typically gathers the season’s signature delights: square or round mooncakes representing fulfillment and the harmony of yin and yang; sweet, fragrant green rice flakes and autumn fruits such as pomelos, persimmons, apples, and bananas, symbolizing wishes for prosperity and growth; a pot of warm tea, adding warmth to family reunions; and the colorful star-shaped lantern – a quintessential decoration of every Mid-Autumn celebration in Vietnam.
Yet within these shared traditions, each region brings its own distinctive flavor. In the North, the Mid-Autumn tray features not only traditional baked and sticky mooncakes, but also an abundance of autumn fruits, carefully arranged to recall the joy of abundant harvests. Adding to its charm are playful decorations – from pomelo-pulp puppies to colorful paper animals and fruit sculptures – crafted to delight children gathering to enjoy the feast under the moonlight.
Central Vietnam, by contrast, is marked by a rustic simplicity, with trays centered on familiar fruits such as coconuts, bananas, papayas, custard apples, and mangoes. The tray is gracefully adorned with a few yellow chrysanthemums, symbolizing reverence for ancestors. Beyond the offerings, Mid-Autumn in Central Vietnam is also distinguished by unique performances and traditional games, such as releasing flower lanterns on the water and vibrant lantern festivals, fostering a festive atmosphere that feels both solemn and lively.
In contrast, the South stands out for its abundance and lavish display. The five-fruit tray is often arranged in a pyramid shape, with larger fruits like coconuts, custard apples, and papayas at the center, surrounded by oranges, tangerines, dragon fruits, pomegranates, and more. A pair of red-fleshed watermelons is often added, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. Together, they create a radiant display that reflects the generous and open-hearted spirit of the southern land.
Each Mid-Autumn tray is not only an offering to the ancestors but also a symbol of joyful reunion. As the moon rises high, families come together to share the feast, savoring tea and mooncakes amid cheerful laughter. Children nibble on sweets, share stories, sing, and parade with lanterns, joining the vibrant rhythm of the lion dance drums. These moments become cherished childhood memories, strengthening family bonds and embodying the true meaning of the Mid-Autumn night.
Beyond family gatherings, every Mid-Autumn season transforms Vietnam’s cities into vibrant festivals of light and color. Streets glow with lanterns and star-shaped lights, with lively activities inviting participation – from lantern-making workshops to mask painting and handcrafting traditional star lanterns. Together, these experiences make the Mid-Autumn Festival a celebration that preserves timeless traditions while sparking joy and creativity in modern life.
And after hours immersed in festive crowds, a relaxing retreat brings a perfect balance to the Mid-Autumn journey. Whether it is the vibrant atmosphere of the Old Quarter at Silk Path Hotel Hanoi and Silk Path Boutique Hanoi, the poetic mountain charm of Silk Path Grand Sapa Resort & Spa, or the serene heritage of the former imperial capital at Silk Path Grand Hue Hotel & Spa, each Silk Path destination offers a refined retreat where guests can embrace the colors of Mid-Autumn in their own way.
Mid-Autumn is not only the season of the radiant full moon, but also a time to revisit childhood memories while cherishing the joy of reunion today. With Silk Path, keep creating warm journeys and discover more enchanting Mid-Autumn stories across Vietnam.
