Double Ninth Festival in China
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Understanding the Double Ninth Festival
The Double Ninth Festival, sometimes referred to as Chongyang Festival (重阳节), is an interesting and favored cultural event in China. It is celebrated on the ninth day of the ninth month according to the lunar calendar, this festival has very deep histories and is loved for its wide range of traditional activities and cultural significance.
Historical Background
The Double Ninth Festival is said to have its origins in the curse of over two thousand years, the yin-yang philosophy of balance and harmony. The number nine as the highest odd number is considered yang and thus, represents masculinity and strength. Doubling that number means one thousand nine hundred; thus, it becomes a duality that invites one to think about the balance of life and its transitory nature.
Moreover, there are beliefs and legends that make this day very significant. One of the most famous tales tells about a man called Huan Jing who got a warning from a god to go to a high place with dogwood leaves and chrysanthemum wine to be safe from a disease that would affect people on the ninth day of the ninth month. So, he did and lived on like others, thus establishing the practices that are still observed today.
Observance and Celebration Date
The celebration of the Double Ninth Festival takes place on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. In most cases, this means the festival is celebrated in October in the Gregorian calendar. The Double Ninth Festival will take place on October 28th in the year 2025.
How Double Ninth Festival is Celebrated
Climbing Mountains
Among the various customs of the Double Ninth Festival, climbing mountains is the one that stands out the most. This action is thought to represent the rise to a better state and the granting of longevity. The majority of the people take this chance to have a hike or mountain trip with their loved ones, enjoying the glorious scenery and doing some physical exercise.
Drinking Chrysanthemum Wine
The festival coincides with the chrysanthemum season, and one of the ways that festive drink is enjoyed is through chrysanthemum wine. This practice is thought to prevent evil, as well as to provide good health. As an aside to its health benefits, chrysanthemum wine is an introduction to Chinese herbal delicacies.
Wearing Cornus Leaves
Cornus (dogwood) leaves have the power to release beneficial spirits while preventing evil ones. Thus, the wearing of these leaves, or the carrying of small bags containing them, is one of the Double Ninth Festival customs that serve as a protective shield.
Paying Respects to Ancestors
Like in other Chinese Festivals, the Double Ninth Festival also involves worshipping of ancestors. Visiting graves, cleaning them, and making offerings are some of the activities families engage in to remember the deceased and show their love.
Paying Tribute to the Elderly
The Double Ninth Festival is not only a time to pay homage to and care for the old. The different generations in families usually get together to celebrate with the elderly, eat together and have fun, thus showing the importance of filial piety and respect for old people.
Public Holiday Status
The Double Ninth Festival is not a public holiday across the country of China. Consequently, banks, schools, and museums are open, but in certain places, they may host special events and activities to honor the day. Some local governments or organizations may proclaim it as a day of respect for the elderly, and they may hold events that foster unity between the different age groups.
Conclusion: Embracing Tradition and Change
The Double Ninth Festival is a lively mixture of history, culture, and philosophy. While it is based on ancient customs and legends, its continuous importance is shown in the way the festival is accepted by everyone in China. The festival which takes place in a contemplative manner through traditional practices and on the other hand through the joyous activities is still a good reminder of the sensitive balance of life, the modern world's dependence on nature, the importance of kinship, and huge tributes to the past.