Double Ninth Festival (Chongyang Festival)

About This Festival

The Double Ninth Festival, celebrated on the 9th day of the 9th lunar month, is a traditional Chinese festival for honoring the elderly. The number nine is considered yang (masculine and positive), so the double ninth is especially auspicious. Traditional activities include climbing mountains, drinking chrysanthemum wine, and wearing dogwood to ward off evil.

History & Origin

The festival has been celebrated for over 2,000 years since the Han Dynasty. The name 'Chongyang' means 'double yang' because nine is a yang number in Chinese philosophy. Legend tells of a man named Huan Jing who climbed a mountain with his family carrying dogwood and drinking chrysanthemum wine to escape a plague monster, establishing the tradition of mountain climbing on this day.

Traditions & Customs

•

Climbing Mountains: Ascending to high places for good health and longevity

•

Wearing Dogwood: Carrying or wearing cornel branches to ward off evil

•

Drinking Chrysanthemum Wine: Consuming wine infused with chrysanthemums for health

•

Eating Chongyang Cake: Layered cakes symbolizing ascending to higher positions

•

Honoring the Elderly: Showing respect and care for senior family members

•

Appreciating Chrysanthemums: Viewing autumn chrysanthemum displays

Traditional Foods

Chongyang Cake (重阳糕)

Layered steamed cake often decorated with jujubes and chestnuts

Chrysanthemum Wine

Wine infused with chrysanthemum flowers, believed to promote longevity

Hairy Crabs

Seasonal delicacy in peak condition during autumn

Mutton Noodles

Warm noodle soup with lamb, perfect for the cooling autumn weather

Festival Activities

•

Climbing mountains and hills with family and friends

•

Visiting and caring for elderly relatives

•

Appreciating chrysanthemum flower displays in parks

•

Flying kites from mountain tops

•

Eating Chongyang cake and drinking chrysanthemum tea

•

Organizing activities and gifts for senior citizens