The Double Ninth Festival, also known as Chongyang Festival, is a traditional Chinese festival celebrated on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. This year, the festival falls on October 14th. The festival has a history of over 2,000 years and is considered a time to pay respect to the elderly and enjoy the autumn scenery.
During the Double Ninth Festival, people engage in various activities to celebrate. One common tradition is to climb mountains or hills, as the Chinese believe that ascending to higher places on this day brings good luck and wards off misfortune. Additionally, people often wear the zhuyu or dogwood plant, believed to have the power to dispel evil spirits and bring good health and longevity.
Another important aspect of the Double Ninth Festival is the custom of drinking chrysanthemum wine and eating chongyang cakes. Chrysanthemum is a symbol of longevity and the wine is believed to have medicinal properties. The chongyang cakes, made with various ingredients such as rice flour, nuts, and jujube, are enjoyed with family and friends.
In modern times, the Double Ninth Festival is also a time for families to get together and show their love and respect for the elderly. Many people take this opportunity to visit their grandparents or elderly relatives, bringing gifts and spending quality time with them.
Overall, the Double Ninth Festival is a time to appreciate the beauty of nature, cherish family bonds, and show respect for the elderly. It is a meaningful and joyful celebration that holds a special place in Chinese culture.