Tag Archive for: Double Ninth Festival

Celebrating the Double Ninth Festival

Double Ninth Festival

The Double Ninth Festival, also known as Chongyang Festival, is a traditional Chinese holiday with over 2,000 years of history. It falls on the ninth day of the ninth month of the lunar calendar. The number nine is considered a yang number in Chinese culture, and with two nines together, this festival is named Chongyang, meaning “Double Yang.”

Origin of the Double Ninth Festival:

The origins of the Double Ninth Festival date back to the Han dynasty. It was initially celebrated as a day to ward off disasters and offer sacrifices to ancestors. People believed that climbing to high places on this day could avoid bad luck and ensure health and safety for their families. Thus, climbing mountains became a significant activity. Additionally, other customs include drinking chrysanthemum wine, wearing dogwood leaves, and admiring chrysanthemums.

Double Ninth Festival

Traditional Customs of the Double Ninth Festival:

  1. Climbing High: It is believed that climbing high on the Double Ninth Festival can ward off misfortune and bring blessings, so people often hike to mountains or elevated spots to enjoy the autumn scenery.
  2. Chrysanthemum Viewing: Chrysanthemums are closely associated with the Double Ninth Festival. Ancient Chinese believed chrysanthemums could prolong life, making them an essential part of the festival.
  3. Drinking Chrysanthemum Wine: Chrysanthemum wine is believed to have medicinal properties, clearing toxins and protecting against disease. It is thought to bring good health and fortune.
  4. Wearing Dogwood: Wearing or carrying dogwood leaves is another way to ward off bad luck during the festival.
  5. Respect for the Elderly: Over time, the festival has evolved into Seniors’ Day, a day to show care and appreciation for the elderly.

Our Company’s Celebration:

At our company, we value tradition and the well-being of our employees. In honor of the Double Ninth Festival, we have prepared special gifts for all employees, including herbal health drinks and festive snacks. This reflects our commitment to employee care and appreciation for their hard work and dedication.

This festival is also an opportunity to express gratitude to our mentors and leaders at work. Just as new employees learn essential professional knowledge and skills from their seniors, this day is a reminder of the invaluable guidance and support we receive. Their experience and wisdom play a crucial role in our progress and success.

Building a Supportive Culture:

By celebrating the Double Ninth Festival together, we aim to foster a caring and supportive environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated. As we honor tradition and show respect to those who have helped us grow, we also look forward to a bright future, where all employees continue to contribute their best to the company’s success.

We invite everyone to join us in the spirit of unity, respect, and gratitude. Together, we will continue to create a culture that reflects our company’s humanistic values and mutual support.

Best wishes to all for a prosperous and healthy future!

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Double Ninth Festival

Double Ninth Festival

The Double Ninth Festival, also known as the Chongyang Festival, is a time-honored Chinese holiday that falls on the ninth day of the ninth month in the lunar calendar. This places it in early October in the Gregorian calendar, and in 2023, the festival will be celebrated on October 23rd.Double Ninth Festival

Climbing to New Heights

One of the most cherished customs during the Double Ninth Festival is climbing mountains. This activity is a celebration of the crisp autumn air, the vibrant fall foliage, and the joy of rising above challenges. Many people venture to the countryside to ascend peaks, particularly those adorned with chrysanthemum flowers, which are associated with the holiday.

Admiring Chrysanthemum Blooms

Chrysanthemums are not only beautiful but also symbolize longevity and endurance. During the Double Ninth Festival, chrysanthemum displays and exhibitions are common. These flowers can be used to brew tea, which is enjoyed for its health benefits, or to make chrysanthemum wine, believed to have medicinal properties.

Savoring Chongyang Cake

Chongyang cake is a special pastry prepared for the festival. This cake is made with multiple layers, signifying progress and development. Consuming it is thought to bring good fortune and keep evil at bay.

Indulging in Chrysanthemum Wine

Chrysanthemum wine, a classic drink for the Double Ninth Festival, is made by steeping chrysanthemum flowers in alcohol. This fragrant wine is believed to promote health and vitality. It’s a delightful way to toast to the occasion.

Honoring Ancestors

In some regions, families visit the graves of their ancestors during this festival. They clean the burial sites and make offerings of food and drink to show respect and gratitude to their forebears.

Engaging in Outdoor Activities

As the weather is typically pleasant during the Double Ninth Festival, it’s an ideal time for outdoor activities. These may include hiking, kite flying, and picnics. Families often spend time together in parks or natural settings, enjoying the autumn atmosphere.

Wearing Dogwood Leaves

In many areas, it’s customary to wear dogwood leaves, which are believed to have protective properties. Some households also decorate their homes with these leaves.

Family Reunions

The Double Ninth Festival is a special occasion for family reunions. Families come together to celebrate, share a meal, and enjoy one another’s company.

The Double Ninth Festival is more than a date on the calendar; it’s a time when tradition and nature unite, offering an opportunity to appreciate the changing season and honor age-old customs. Whether you’re climbing a mountain, sipping chrysanthemum tea, or simply spending time with family, this festival is a chance to embrace the beauty of autumn and the richness of Chinese culture.

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