The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is a traditional Chinese festival celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month. Here is an overview of its origins and customs in English:

**Origins:**
The Mid-Autumn Festival has its roots in ancient China, with various legends and customs attached to it. One of the most popular legends is about the moon god, Chang'e, who is said to have ascended to the moon after consuming an elixir of immortality. Another story revolves around the ancient Chinese astronomer Hou Yi, who shot down nine suns with an arrow to save the world from overheating. His wife, Chang'e, then swallowed the elixir, causing her to be forever confined to the moon.
**Festivities:**
1. **Moon Viewing:** The festival is primarily celebrated at night, with families gathering to admire the full moon. It is believed that the moon is at its brightest and roundest on this day.
2. **Mooncakes:** Mooncakes are the iconic food of the Mid-Autumn Festival. These round pastries symbolize reunion and are typically filled with sweet or savory ingredients like lotus seed paste, red bean paste, or salted egg yolk.
3. **Lanterns:** Children often carry lanterns, which are lit and released into the sky to symbolize light and hope. These lanterns can be of various shapes and sizes, often depicting animals or Chinese characters.
4. **Dragon and Lion Dances:** In some regions, dragon and lion dances are performed to bring good luck and fortune to the community.
5. **Pumpkin Carving:** While not as widespread as in Halloween, pumpkin carving is also a tradition during the Mid-Autumn Festival in some areas. People carve designs into pumpkins and place them in their homes.
6. **Tea Drinking:** Drinking tea is another custom associated with the festival. It is believed that tea can help clear the mind and aid in the appreciation of the moon.
7. **Poetry and Literature:** The Mid-Autumn Festival has been a source of inspiration for Chinese poets and writers throughout history. Many poems have been composed to celebrate the festival and the beauty of the moon.
The Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for family reunions, reflection, and the appreciation of nature, particularly the moon. It is a time of joy and togetherness, with customs that have been passed down through generations.
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