The Mid Autumn Festival, known in Vietnam as Tet Trung Thu, is one of the most beloved cultural celebrations in the country. Held on the fifteenth day of the eighth lunar month, the festival is traditionally dedicated to children, family gatherings, and the celebration of the full moon. Over time it has evolved into a nationwide event that brings together tradition, art, food, and community spirit.
Tet Trung Thu is often referred to as the festival of children. Historically, it was celebrated at the end of the harvest season when parents could spend more time with their children after months of working in the fields. Families would honor the full moon as a symbol of prosperity, harmony, and reunion. Today the festival remains a cherished holiday that strengthens family bonds.
The most recognizable symbol of Tet Trung Thu is the colorful lantern. Lanterns come in various shapes including stars, butterflies, rabbits, carp fish, and even modern cartoon characters. Children parade through streets carrying lanterns during nighttime celebrations. The warm glow of lanterns creates a magical atmosphere that transforms neighborhoods into vibrant scenes of light. Many towns, especially Hoi An, host lantern festivals where the streets are filled with thousands of flickering lanterns.
Mooncakes also play a significant role in this festival. Vietnamese mooncakes come in two varieties: baked and sticky rice. They are filled with lotus seeds, mung beans, coconut, durian, salted egg yolks, or mixed nuts. Families exchange mooncakes with relatives, friends, and colleagues as an expression of good wishes. For many, making mooncakes at home is a cherished activity passed down through generations.
Lion dancing is another important tradition. Groups of young performers travel from house to house wearing colorful lion costumes. Their energetic dances are accompanied by drums, cymbals, and cheers from the crowd. The lion dance symbolizes luck, strength, and protection from evil spirits.
Tet Trung Thu celebrations highlight the beauty of Vietnamese culture. Whether through lantern making workshops, mooncake sharing, storytelling, or family reunions, the festival reflects community values that continue to thrive today.
