The festival is held on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar with full moon at night, corresponding to late September to early October of the Gregorian calendar with a full moon at night. Mainland China listed the festival as "intangible cultural heritage" in 2006 and a public holiday in 2008.It is also a public holiday in Taiwan and in Hong Kong. In Vietnamese culture, it is considered the second-most important holiday tradition. Due to ancient China's cultural influence, Mid-Autumn Festival spread to other parts of Asia. Mooncakes have also appeared in western countries as an exotic sweet.

The festival celebrates three fundamental concepts that are closely connected:

1. Gathering, such as family and friends coming together, or harvesting crops for the festival. It's said the moon is the brightest and roundest on this day which means family reunion. And this is the main reason why people think mid-autumn is important.


2. Thanksgiving, to give thanks for the harvest, or for harmonious unions.


3. Praying (asking for conceptual or material satisfaction), such as for babies, a spouse, beauty, longevity, or for a good future Traditions and myths surrounding the festival are formed around these three concepts, although traditions have changed over time due to changes in technology, science, economy, culture, and religion. It's about well being together.