Mid Autumn Festival (or Moon Festival) is a Chinese traditional holiday celebrating the middle of Autumn (it has a story behind it which I won't attempt to elaborate here... wikipedia to the rescue) , and is considered one of the most important festivals of the year. I always found it somewhat like Thanksgiving - because both happen in the fall, and both are a time of year where family gather for a meal and enjoy quality time together. After dinner, families usually go to a nearby park or rooftop to gaze at the big round moon, share fruits and mooncakes, and play with lanterns. With the quiet evening and beautiful lanterns, Mid Autumn is always a relaxing and serene night.
The Mid Autumn Festival is coming up next week, so I went lantern hunting around traditional Chinese paper stores this weekend. Think Chinese version of Papyrus (or Paperchase, if you're from the UK). Modern day manufacturers sell plastic blow up lanterns, but I always find the traditional ones prettiest and most festive.
All the choices....!
[This bunny design has been an all-time favorite for generations. Looks kind of creepy but always makes me think of how back in the day kids used to find joy in such simple toys. No iPad, no iPhone, just pure imagination and creativity.]
[Making a tough choice. Goldfish, butterfly or bunny?]
I finally went with the good old miniature bunny lantern, made with the most delicate cellophane sheets. It's going to look so pretty in the dark all lit up!
The weekend is never long enough, but I'm going to be staring at this cute lantern for the coming week, looking forward to Mid Autumn fun next weekend. :)
Linking up with Five30Three & Sami's Shenanigans
This is SO COOL!!! I'm planning on getting some lanterns to light and set off at the beach for my birthday. Looking forward to photos of yours! :)
ReplyDeletewow it looks so amazingly colorful!
ReplyDeleteI had no idea about Moon Festival, but it looks way fun! So many colors, perfect for the transition into fall.
ReplyDeleteI used to get my own lantern and go for a walk in the park with my parents when I was young. I miss the festivities so much.
ReplyDeletewhat a beautiful lantern! it's going to look great!
ReplyDeletehappy monday!
xoxo, sarah grace
Wow, everything looks so pretty! I love the overwhelming amount of color in the photos!
ReplyDeleteYour blog is adorable! I'm a new follower (GFC and bloglovin), you can find me at thedomesticgeek.blogspot.com =)
So colorful and jolly. hope your festive holidays were nice and fun.
ReplyDelete