Lanterns Under The Moon: Legends and Traditions of Trung Thu

Every autumn, when the moon grows full and bright, Vietnamese families gather beneath its glow to celebrate Trung Thu - the Mid-Autumn Festival of lanterns, legends, and reunion.Lanterns Under the Moon takes readers on a journey through the ancient stories and living traditions that make this festival so beloved. Meet Chị Hằng, the gentle Moon Lady, and Chú Cuội, forever seated beneath his magical banyan tree. Discover why lion dance troupes travel from house to house, why children carry glowing star-shaped lanterns through the streets, and why a small dog carved from pomelo peel might sit proudly atop a family's moon-viewing tray.Blending folklore with everyday customs, this book invites readers of all backgrounds to experience the warmth, wonder, and quiet joy of a festival that has brought Vietnamese families together for generations.Inside, you'll discover: - The legends of Chị Hằng, Chú Cuội, and the Jade Rabbit- The meaning behind lanterns, lion dances, and mooncakes- How the moon-viewing tray brings families together- Regional traditions from Hanoi to Hội An to Ho Chi Minh City- How Trung Thu continues to be celebrated today, in Vietnam and around the worldWhether you're of Vietnamese heritage looking to reconnect with your roots, a parent wanting to share new traditions with your children, or simply someone who loves stories from around the world, Lanterns Under the Moon offers a warm and inviting window into one of Vietnam's most treasured festivals.