The Mid-Autumn Festival, or Tet Trung Thu, is a beloved Vietnamese celebration of reunion, mooncakes, full-moon lanterns, and family bonding.
Tet Trung Thu (Mid-Autumn Festival) is one of Vietnam’s most beloved celebrations. Centered around the full moon, this joyful holiday celebrates family reunion, mooncake sharing, and lantern-lit nights — a tradition rich in symbolism and warmth.
What Is the Mid-Autumn Festival?
Celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, the Mid-Autumn Festival marks the time when the moon is at its brightest and fullest. In Vietnam, it's considered a "Children's Festival," but it's also a time when families come together, light lanterns, and enjoy traditional delicacies.
The Symbolic Role of Mooncakes
Mooncakes are the highlight of the Mid-Autumn celebration. These round pastries represent unity and completeness. Sharing mooncakes among family members, friends, or colleagues signifies harmony and appreciation.
Popular Mooncake Flavors in Vietnam
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Mixed nuts (thap cam)
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Lotus seed paste
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Salted egg yolk
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Green tea
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Durian
Family Traditions That Make It Special
Lantern Processions
Children parade the streets holding colorful lanterns shaped like stars, fish, or dragons. This symbolizes light guiding the way through darkness.
Lion Dances (Mua Lan)
These traditional performances bring joy to children and are believed to ward off evil spirits while attracting luck and prosperity.
Offering to the Moon
Families set up a small altar with mooncakes, fruits, and tea as offerings to the Moon Goddess, honoring the fullness of life and gratitude.
Why This Festival Matters
In modern Vietnam, Tet Trung Thu is not only about sweets and entertainment. It’s a moment to pause, reconnect, and share love within families—especially meaningful in a fast-paced world.