Moon Cakes

Food tradition.

In China and throughout many Asian countries, people celebrate the Harvest Moon. The Harvest Moon occurs when the moon is at its roundest and brightest, signaling a time of completeness and abundance. This year the Moon Festival falls on Saturday, October 3rd.

There are many legends and stories about the history of the moon festival ranging from: paying tribute to the lady in the moon, to the belief that “When the moon is full, mankind is one!” Whatever your beliefs, this is a beautiful tradition and a great way to add a little fun to your normal Saturday night.

One of the ways the Chinese celebrate is to make delectable little cakes known as Moon Cakes. They are extremely ornate and filled with many different goodies. They are extremely hard to make, so if you have an Asian market in your area that may be the best way to get your hands on some. I plan on taking a jaunt to upstate New York this weekend which will definitely include a little hand holding under the bright moon and a delicious moon cake.

If you can’t find moon cakes in your area I am sure the lady in the moon wouldn’t mind a tribute with an equally tasty moon pie!