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Chinese Harvest Festival

This is How Thanksgiving is Celebrated in China

Thanksgiving is not a traditional holiday in China, but it is becoming increasingly popular in recent years. This is due in part to the growing influence of American culture in China, as well as the increasing number of Chinese people who have lived or studied in the United States.

There is no one set way to celebrate Thanksgiving in China. Some people celebrate it in a similar way to how it is celebrated in the United States, with a large meal and gatherings of family and friends. Others may celebrate it in a more Chinese way, with dishes such as Peking duck or dumplings.

Here are some examples of how Thanksgiving is celebrated in China:

Family gatherings and meals: Many Chinese people celebrate Thanksgiving by having a large meal with their family and friends. The meal may include traditional American dishes such as turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing, or it may include more Chinese dishes such as Peking duck or dumplings.

Gift-giving: Some Chinese people exchange gifts on Thanksgiving. This is not as common as in the United States, but it is becoming more popular.

Decorations: Some Chinese people decorate their homes with Thanksgiving-themed decorations, such as pumpkins, cornucopias, and fall leaves.

Parades and festivals: Some cities in China hold Thanksgiving parades and festivals. These events are often organized by American expatriates or Chinese-American community groups.

Overall, Thanksgiving is a relatively new holiday in China, but it is becoming increasingly popular. Chinese people celebrate Thanksgiving in a variety of ways, but the most important thing is to spend time with loved ones and give thanks for the good things in life.

The Harvest FestiVals of China:

Harvest Festival - Thanksgiving Celebrations in China

The August Moon Festival or the Mid-Autumn Festival or the Moon Cake Festival is one of the most celebrated Chinese harvest festivals. The festival is held on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month which is in September or early October in the Gregorian calendar, close to the autumnal equinox. This festival of china ends with a big feast. The Chinese have Moon Cakes during the festival. Friends and relatives send Moon cakes to each other as a way of giving thanks. People enjoy music and dancing and eating round yellow Moon Cakes. The Autumn Moon festival has much in common with the Thanksgiving Festival. At this time, the moon is at its fullest and brightest which becomes an ideal time to celebrate the abundance of the summer’s harvest. The Round moon cakes are baked and enjoyed, ornate lanterns are made and hung, and lovers are encouraged to come out of their homes and relax in the glow of the full moon.

According to a say, the moon is at its brightest and roundest on this day. Friendships are made and renewed on this day. Chinese poets keep writing for many years about long lost lovers finding their way to each other on this special night.

The August Moon festival is often recognized as the Women’s festival. The moon symbolizes beauty and elegance and is also referred as a female principle and is a trusted friend.

Many ancient August Moon folktales are about a Moon Maiden. On the 15th night of the 8th lunar moon, little children on earth can see a lady on the Moon. And those who make wishes to the Lady on the Moon will find their dreams come true.

Mid-Autumn is a time for family, friends and loved ones to gather and enjoy the full moon that is a symbol of abundance, harmony and luck. Families enjoy picnics or special dinners. Along with the delicious moon cakes, children enjoy puppet shows and lantern processions.

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