The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the “Children’s Festival” or the “Moon Festival,” is one of the important traditional holidays in Vietnam. It is held on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, when the moon is at its fullest. For children, the Mid-Autumn Festival symbolizes family reunion and joy, while also offering a time for kids to play and have fun. During the two main days of the festival, there are numerous traditional and modern activities that families can enjoy together.
Interesting Activities During the Mid-Autumn Festival in Viet Nam
1. Lantern Parade
The lantern parade is an essential activity during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Children hold colorful and differently shaped lanterns, often in the form of stars, carp, butterflies, or rabbits. Traditionally, these lanterns were handcrafted from bamboo and colored paper, with candles lit inside. Today, many lanterns are battery-operated, with LED lights and fun sounds.
The lantern parade is not only a source of joy for children but also symbolizes hope and light. Families can join these parades, which are organized in neighborhoods, schools, and at local festivals.
2. Enjoying the Mid-Autumn Festival Feast & mooncakes
The Mid-Autumn Festival feast is an important part of the holiday, featuring not just an array of candies and fruits, but also carrying spiritual significance. The feast typically includes mooncakes, pomelos, watermelons, persimmons, custard apples, bananas, and various other beautifully arranged fruits. Mooncakes come in two main varieties: baked and sticky, with fillings such as mixed nuts or mung beans and salted eggs.
Setting up the feast represents prayers for health, prosperity, and harmony within the family. Children are always excited for this feast, as after the family prayers, they get to enjoy the fruits and sweets—a delightful activity during the Mid-Autumn Festival.
So, mooncakes are not only a delicious treat but also symbolize unity and sharing. Cutting the mooncake is a family tradition, representing reunion and the sharing of love and blessings. Each person gets a slice, symbolizing closeness and familial bonds. Nowadays, gifting mooncakes to friends, family, and colleagues has also become a common practice, expressing gratitude and affection.
3. Participating in Traditional Games
During the Mid-Autumn Festival, many places organize traditional games such as tug of war, sack races, stilt walking, and pot-breaking. These games bring joy and help children learn more about the cultural heritage of the country. Such activities take place in neighborhoods, schools, or community festivals, engaging both children and parents alike.
4. Lion Dance Performances
Lion dance, also known as the lion or dragon dance, is a unique and popular performance during major festivals, especially the Mid-Autumn Festival. Lion dance troupes move through streets and neighborhoods, accompanied by the sound of rhythmic drums, creating a lively, festive atmosphere. According to folk belief, the lion dance not only brings joy but also drives away evil spirits and brings good luck and peace.
Many families invite lion dance troupes to perform at their homes as a way to wish for good fortune. This exciting activity is particularly loved by children and is a way for the entire family to join in the festive spirit.
5. Watching Fireworks or Confetti Cannons
In recent years, many localities have organized fireworks displays to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival. The bright lights from the fireworks, combined with the full moon, create a beautiful scene that brings joy and excitement to everyone. If fireworks are not available, many families opt for confetti cannons or sparklers to add sparkle to the festive atmosphere.
Watching fireworks on the Mid-Autumn night is a wonderful experience, especially for children, as fireworks bring excitement and fun. Families can sit together and enjoy the moment as the sky lights up.
6. Crafting and Creativity
During the Mid-Autumn Festival, crafting traditional items such as lanterns, masks, and small drums is an enjoyable activity for both children and adults. Parents can guide their children in making their own lanterns or masks from paper, creating unique and personalized toys.
This activity not only helps children develop creativity but also fosters a warm, family atmosphere. It’s a great opportunity for family members to bond and share joy through simple, handmade crafts.
7. Attending Mid-Autumn Festivals and Fairs
Many localities host Mid-Autumn Festival fairs, offering handcrafted items, mooncakes, lanterns, and other festive products. Attending these fairs allows families not only to shop but also to enjoy traditional games, performances, and experience the festival’s cultural richness.
In some areas, there are music performances, children’s plays, or even lantern-making competitions that attract widespread participation from the community.
Conclusion
The Mid-Autumn Festival is not just a traditional holiday but also an occasion for families to enjoy time together, share love, and create memorable experiences. Activities such as lantern parades, mooncake sharing, traditional games, and lion dances all contribute to the full enjoyment of the festival, especially for children. Through these engaging activities, the Mid-Autumn Festival has become an indispensable part of Vietnamese culture, fostering family unity and lasting values.
