Moon Cake Festival

One of the great aspects of Malaysia is the incredible festivals. One that you certainly do not want to miss is called the Mid-Autumn Moon Cake Festival or Chung Chiu. Of all festivals of the Chinese calendar, this is the third largest, which is celebrated in the eighth month on the fifteenth day. The purpose of this festival coordinates with harvest festivals held by westernized countries. In addition, the Mid-Autumn Moon Cake Festival corresponds with Hong Kong’s Lantern Festival.

Many people believe that the Mid-Autumn Moon Cake Festival has to do with philosophically minded, old Chinese. However, this festival is actually to celebrate the harvest. Sometimes shortened to the Moon Cake Festival, a delicious type of sweet cake called Yueh Ping is created in the shape of the moon. Then the cakes are filled with sesame seeds, duck eggs, and lotus seeds that have been finely ground. In Malaysia, these cakes are considered a coveted delicacy.

Although the custom and origin of the moon came is unknown, some people believe it began sometime in the 14th century. The legend is that when China was going through a revolt against the Mongols, Chu Yuen Chang and his top deputy created a battle plan with a secret moon cake that would be taken to the enemies behind the walled city. This deputy, Liu Po Wen, dressed up as a Taoist priest, delivered the moon cakes.

However, when the Chung Chiu festival was to begin, people came and opened up the cakes only to find messages telling them to plan their uprising for the troops outside the walls. With this, the soon to be emperor took control of the city, as well as the throne. Because of this, the moon cake became very famous. Now, we do not know if this tale is true but it is certainly and interesting story.

Because of the timing of the moon cake with the festival, it soon played and important role. The date for the Mid-Autumn Moon Cake Festival is due to the maximum brightness of the moon at that specific time. The story passed on to the children is that a moon fairy that lives in a beautiful, crystal palace comes to dance on the moon’s shadowy surface. Regardless of the true story surrounding the moon cake, we know they are delicious and that the Mid-Autumn Moon Cake Festival is a wonderful time for all.


Last Updated: 10/19/2006 3:14:00 PM

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