The festival is held on the 15th day of the eighth month in the Chinese calendar,during a full moon.
The festival consists of three fundamental meanings which are closely tied to one another:
-gathering,such as family and friends coming together,or harvesting crops
-thanksgiving,to give thanks for the harvest,or for harmonious unions
-praying (asking for conceptual or material satisfaction),such as for babies,a spouse,beauty,longevity,or for a good future.
A notable part of celebrating the holiday is the carrying of brightly lit lanterns.
Making and sharing mooncakes is one of the hallmark traditions of this festival.