The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is one of the most important traditional festivals in China. It falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month and is celebrated by people all over the world. The festival is a time for family reunions, expressing gratitude, and enjoying the beauty of the full moon.

One of the most famous customs during the Mid-Autumn Festival is eating mooncakes. These delicious pastries are filled with various ingredients such as lotus seed paste, red bean paste, or even meat. Sharing mooncakes with family and friends symbolizes unity and harmony. Another popular activity is admiring the bright, round moon, which represents completeness and togetherness.

The legend of Chang'e, the moon goddess, is closely associated with the Mid-Autumn Festival. According to the story, Chang'e swallowed an elixir of immortality and floated to the moon. Her husband, Hou Yi, missed her deeply and would look up at the moon, hoping to see her. This tale adds a touch of romance and longing to the festival.

In addition to mooncakes and moon gazing, lanterns play a significant role in the celebrations. People light lanterns and hang them in their homes or carry them during parades. Lanterns come in many shapes and sizes, often depicting animals, flowers, or traditional motifs.

The Mid-Autumn Festival is not just about traditions; it's also about spending quality time with loved ones. Families gather together to enjoy meals, share stories, and make new memories. Whether you're savoring a mooncake, admiring the moon, or lighting a lantern, the spirit of the festival is about bringing people closer.

As you create your English handout for the Mid-Autumn Festival, consider including these elements: a brief history of the festival, descriptions of key customs like mooncakes and lanterns, and perhaps a short poem or story related to the moon. Your handout can serve as both an educational tool and a creative expression of this meaningful holiday.