The Double Ninth Festival (Chinese: 重陽節), also known as the Mountain Climbing Festival or Seniors' Day, is a traditional holiday celebrated on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month in China. In Chinese traditional culture, "nine" is considered the largest yang number, so the ninth day of the ninth month is called "Double Ninth," symbolizing longevity and auspiciousness. Therefore, the Double Ninth Festival has become an essential occasion for praying for health and longevity.

The history of the Double Ninth Festival dates back to the Warring States period. By the Han Dynasty, it had already become a fixed festival. On this day, people would engage in various celebratory activities, such as mountain climbing, wearing cornel (a type of shrub), drinking chrysanthemum wine, and more, all aimed at warding off evil spirits and praying for good health. After the Tang Dynasty, the celebration of the Double Ninth Festival became even more diverse and rich, gradually forming the customs we see today.

Here are some traditional customs of the Double Ninth Festival. Let's learn about them together.

Mountain Climbing
In ancient times, people believed climbing high places could ward off evil and invigorate the spirit. People gather with friends and family at the Double Ninth Festival to enjoy the natural scenery and express their feelings.

Wearing Cornel
Cornel was thought to have the power to drive away evil. On the Double Ninth Festival, people would hang cornel branches on doors or wear them to seek peace and safety.

Drinking Chrysanthemum Wine
Chrysanthemums symbolize longevity. Ancient people believed drinking wine made from chrysanthemums could extend life, making it a traditional custom during the festival.

Eating Double Ninth Cake
Double Ninth Cake is a sweet treat made from glutinous rice. The word "cake" (糕) sounds like "high" (高) in Chinese, symbolizing a rise in status and success. Thus, it has become an essential food item during the festival.

As society evolves, the significance of the Double Ninth Festival continues to expand. In modern times, the festival is not only a day to honor the elderly but also carries the cultural values of respecting elders, fostering family harmony, and social responsibility. Many places organize activities such as visiting elderly people living alone, hosting health lectures for seniors, and more, emphasizing care and support for the older generation. The Double Ninth Festival also provides a great opportunity to connect with nature. Urban residents often choose this day to go on outings and engage in outdoor activities, promoting physical health and strengthening family bonds.

In summary, the Double Ninth Festival is a traditional holiday with a rich cultural heritage and a modern festival that promotes social harmony and family cohesion. By preserving and developing this traditional festival, we can better understand and inherit the excellent traditions of Chinese culture while promoting the progress of society.

(By Yang Jiming/Qi Qian)