Tet Trung Thu, as it is known in Vietnam, or the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival as we refer to it in the Western Countries.Traditionally held on the 15th day of the 8th Lunar Month., the same day as the full moon. The Mid-Autumn Moon Festival is one of the two most popular festivals in Vietnam, and has been important to families in Vietnam for many years. In Vietnam, this wonderful festival revolves around children.
It is said that originally, the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival came about as a way for parents to make up for lost time with their children after harvest season and the parents were anxious to spend time with their children to do something special with them during the full moon which represents fullness and prosperity of life.
Tet Trung Thu is very much like a combination of our Halloween and Thanksgiving. Children parade on the streets, while singing and carrying colorful lanterns of different sizes. Some of the popular shapes include fishes, stars, butterflies and a lantern that spins when a candle is inserted, representing the earth circling the sun.
Dances are also traditional, and include the dragon dance and the flower dance.
It is customary to give Banh Trung Thu, boxes of moon cakes, which are traditionally very rich in taste. The cakes are filled with lotus seeds, ground beans and orange peels and have a bright yoke in the center to represent the moon.
Today, the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival, as well as encouraging affection for children, promotes education, poetry, dance and arts and crafts.
To help children get ready for the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival, parents can help children make their lanterns and costumes for the lantern procession and discuss the history and culture of Vietnam.Showing our love for our children and teaching of Vietnam’s love for their children is a wonderful reason to celebrate!
