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Today, I’m going to talk to you about Mid-Autumn Festival.The


Mid-Autumn Festival holds significant cultural importance in
my country. This traditional celebration is not unique to
Vietnam; it is also observed in various other Asian regions,
including China, Japan, and Korea. Typically falling on the 15th
day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar, this festival
coincides with the full moon’s radiant appearance at night.

The festival also has strong cultural significance, with roots in


ancient Chinese myths and legends. The most popular tale is
that of Chang’e, the moon goddess, who is said to live on the
moon after consuming an elixir of immortality. People often tell
stories and share folklore associated with the festival.

Slide 2:
When it comes to Mid-autumn festivals, the first thing that
springs to my mind is the Moon cakes, which are a popular
traditional Vietnamese food.
Moon-cakes are perhaps the most iconic food associated with
the Mid-Autumn Festival. These round pastries symbolize
completeness and reunion. Traditionally, families prepare or
purchase moon-cakes to share among themselves and gift to
friends and relatives as a sign of appreciation and goodwill. The
fillings can vary widely, including lotus seed paste, red bean
paste, or mixed nuts, often containing salted egg yolks to
symbolize fertility and harmony and longevity

Slide 3:
1. Family Reunions

One of the central themes of the Mid-Autumn Festival is family


togetherness. Families often gather for a large dinner to
celebrate the occasion. This meal typically includes a variety of
dishes that symbolize prosperity and unity. The act of reuniting
with family members emphasizes the importance of familial
bonds, especially during this time when the moon is at its fullest
and brightest.

2. Moon Appreciation

During the festival, it is customary to appreciate the beauty of


the full moon. People often gather outdoors in parks or gardens
to gaze at the moon while enjoying their moon-cakes and tea.
This activity fosters a sense of peace and reflection, allowing
individuals to connect with nature and contemplate their wishes
for health and happiness.

4. Lantern Making and Dragon Dance

Another popular activity during the Mid-Autumn Festival is


making colorful lanterns. Children often participate in crafting
their own lanterns from paper or other materials, which they
then display during evening celebrations. Lanterns can come in
various shapes—some resembling animals or flowers—and are
lit up at night to create a festive atmosphere.This practice
originates from the folk tale of Cuoi, a man who accidentally got
stranded on the moon after clinging to a magical banyan tree as
it floated away. The lanterns’ lights are believed to guide Cuoi
back to Earth. The festival is also incomplete without the
spectacular performances of dragon and lion dances.

During these dance performances, dragons and lions visit


homes, blessing them with luck and fortune. In return, hosts
offer them lucky money as a token of gratitude.

Meaning:
In essence, the Mid-Autumn Festival celebrates harvest, family,
unity, and gratitude, while also honoring the beauty and
symbolism of the full moon. It is a time of reflection, reunion,
and the sharing of joy and good fortune.

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