The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival or Mooncake Festival, is a traditional celebration observed by various Asian communities, most notably in China, Vietnam, and Taiwan, but also in countries such as Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, and Singapore. The festival, which falls on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, has its origins in ancient China, dating back over 3,000 years to the Shang Dynasty. It was initially a time to celebrate the harvest and give thanks to the gods. Over time, it became associated with the legend of Chang'e, the moon goddess who is believed to live on the moon after drinking an elixir of immortality. The festival is marked by various customs, including moon-gazing, lighting lanterns, and sharing mooncakes, a rich pastry filled with sweet or savory ingredients.

In Vietnam, the Mid-Autumn Festival, known as Tết Trung Thu, is particularly focused on children, who partake in parades, lion dances, and receive toys and sweets. The Vietnamese version of the festival also emphasizes the importance of family reunions and the spirit of giving. In Korea, the festival is called Chuseok, and it is one of the most significant holidays, featuring family gatherings, ancestral rituals, and traditional games. In Japan, the festival is known as Tsukimi or "Moon Viewing," where people appreciate the beauty of the full moon and enjoy seasonal foods such as dango (rice dumplings). Across these different cultures, the Mid-Autumn Festival remains a time for family, reflection, and celebration of the autumn harvest, symbolizing unity and prosperity.