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The Magic of Moon Festival Treats: Why We Indulge in Mooncakes Every Mid-Autumn Festival

Every year, the eighth lunar month brings the Mid-Autumn Festival, a time when mooncakes take center stage. But why do we indulge in these delicate pastries during this specific festival, and what is the story behind their origin? The mooncake, with its rich history and cultural significance, is an integral part of this annual celebration.

Administrator

20 July, 2024

As Mid-Autumn Festival approaches, the market buzzes with a variety of mooncakes, enticing customers with their delicious flavors. Enjoying mooncakes during this festival has become a beautiful tradition for Vietnamese people. Although mooncakes have been around for many years, they continue to captivate consumers and leave lasting impressions, especially during the Mid-Autumn Festival.

1Why Do We Eat Mooncakes During the Mid-Autumn Festival?

Why is it a tradition to eat mooncakes during the Mid-Autumn Festival?

Every year, as a custom, people buy mooncakes during the Mid-Autumn Festival. They offer these cakes to their ancestors and also gather with their families to enjoy the delicious treats while sipping hot tea. Mooncakes and tea make a perfect pair during this reunion festival. The sweetness of the mooncakes complements the bitterness and astringency of the tea, creating a refined and cozy atmosphere during the Mid-Autumn Festival.

One of the reasons why people choose to eat mooncakes is that the square-shaped cakes represent the earth and stability, while the round mooncakes symbolize completeness and fulfillment in life. Eating mooncakes during the family reunion also carries the hope for peace and lasting happiness in life.

The flavors of mooncakes are constantly evolving to meet the diverse preferences of consumers. Each year, new flavors are introduced to offer novel experiences and prevent palate fatigue.

2Origin and Significance of Mooncakes

Origin of Mooncakes

Mooncakes originated in China and were later introduced to Vietnam. According to a legend, during the late Yuan dynasty in China, a peasant uprising led by Chu Yuan Zhang and Liu Ba Wen used mooncakes to secretly spread the message about the timing of the rebellion. A piece of paper with the message “revolt at the brightest moon” was hidden inside the round cakes.

This method of communication proved to be effective, and since then, the Chinese have made mooncakes during the Mid-Autumn Festival to commemorate this event.

Significance of Mooncakes

Firstly, mooncakes symbolize completeness, abundance, and family reunion, reflecting the joy of family members gathering together during the Mid-Autumn Festival.

There are two main types of mooncakes:

Soft mooncakes, with their round shape, symbolize family reunion, and their white color represents the loyalty and closeness between husband and wife.

Baked mooncakes, on the other hand, convey the idea of durability and eternity. No matter what difficulties life brings, family members will always be there for each other, providing support and protection. Additionally, the fillings of the mooncakes can be sweet or savory, symbolizing the warmth and love within the family.

We hope that this article has helped you understand why mooncakes are eaten during the Mid-Autumn Festival and shed light on the origin and significance of these delicious treats. With the festival approaching, don’t forget to share delicious and high-quality mooncakes with your loved ones!