▶ Lunar Date & Seasonal Significance

The festival takes place on the 9th day of the 9th lunar month. In traditional Chinese culture, the number nine is associated with longevity and the yang energy. As autumn reaches its peak, families come together to honor the elderly and seek good fortune for the future.

▶ 2025 Key Dates

• Lunar Date: October 29, 2025 (9th day of the 9th lunar month)
• Note: The Double Ninth Festival is not a national public holiday, but many businesses and communities organize special events, and some people take time off to celebrate with their families.

▶ Public Holiday Schedule (2025 - 2029)

▶ Mountain Climbing: Reaching for the Sky

• Symbolism: Climbing mountains on the Double Ninth Festival is a tradition that dates back centuries. It represents the desire to rise above difficulties, gain a broader perspective on life, and seek longevity, as higher altitudes were believed to be closer to the gods and immortality.
• Modern Rituals:
  • Popular Peaks: In Beijing, the Fragrant Hills are a favorite destination, attracting thousands of visitors who hike to the summit to enjoy panoramic views of the city bathed in autumn colors. In Huangshan, the Yellow Mountains, the combination of strange - shaped pines, sea of clouds, and hot springs makes the climb an unforgettable experience.
  • Family Outings: Many families take this opportunity to spend quality time together outdoors. Parents bring their children, and grandparents join in, creating a multi - generational bonding experience.

▶ Chrysanthemum Appreciation: A Floral Tribute

• Origins: Chrysanthemums have long been associated with the Double Ninth Festival in Chinese culture. They bloom in autumn, defying the cold weather, and symbolize resilience, purity, and longevity.
• Modern Rituals:
  • Flower Exhibitions: Cities across China host chrysanthemum exhibitions, showcasing a wide variety of species and elaborate floral arrangements. The Kaifeng Chrysanthemum Fair in Henan Province is one of the most famous, attracting visitors from far and wide with its stunning displays.
  • Chrysanthemum Tea and Wine: People also enjoy drinking chrysanthemum tea and wine during the festival. Chrysanthemum tea is known for its refreshing taste and health benefits, while chrysanthemum wine is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.

▶ Wearing Cornel Twigs: Protection and Blessings

• Significance: Cornel twigs are traditionally worn on this day to protect against evil and bring good fortune. The cornel plant is thought to have magical properties, and its branches are often placed on doors and windows to safeguard the home.
• Modern Adaptation: In some areas, people now make cornel - themed accessories, such as bracelets and keychains, as a way to carry the blessings with them throughout the year.

▶ Respecting the Elderly: A Heartfelt Gesture

• Symbolism: The Double Ninth Festival is also known as the Senior Citizens' Day in modern China. It is a time to show respect and gratitude to the elderly for their wisdom, contributions, and love.
• Modern Rituals:
  • Community Activities: Many communities organize special events for the elderly, such as health check - ups, cultural performances, and group meals. These activities aim to promote social interaction and improve the well - being of senior citizens.
  • Family Gatherings: Families get together to have a big meal, exchange gifts, and listen to the stories and advice of their elders. It is a time to strengthen family bonds and create lasting memories.

▶ The Story of Huan Jing

• Content: During the Han Dynasty, a plague broke out on the 9th day of the 9th lunar month every year, causing many deaths. A young man named Huan Jing lost his family to the plague. Determined to find a way to stop it, he studied under a famous immortal. On the advice of his master, he led the villagers to climb a high mountain on the Double Ninth Festival, giving them cornel leaves and chrysanthemum wine to protect them. When the plague - bringing demons descended from the sky, they were repelled by the strong yang energy and the protective items. Since then, climbing mountains and wearing cornel twigs on this day became a tradition to ward off evil and ensure good health.
• Significance: This legend highlights the importance of courage, perseverance, and the power of traditional remedies in protecting the community.

▶ The Immortal Feast on the Double Ninth

• Content: In ancient times, there were two immortals, Fei Changfang and his disciple Meng Jiao. On the Double Ninth Festival, Fei Changfang invited Meng Jiao to climb a high mountain with him. As they reached the summit, they saw a magnificent feast laid out by other immortals. They joined the feast and were granted the gift of longevity. After returning to the mortal world, Meng Jiao shared this experience with others, and climbing mountains on the Double Ninth Festival became associated with the pursuit of a long and healthy life.
• Significance: It reflects the Chinese people's long - standing desire for immortality and a better life, and how traditions can be passed down through storytelling.

▶ Must - Try Dishes for International Travelers

• Double Ninth Cake (Chóngyáng Gāo): Also known as flower cake, it is a traditional food made with glutinous rice flour, sugar, and various nuts and dried fruits. The cake is usually multi - layered, symbolizing a step - by - step ascent to a higher level of life.

• Chrysanthemum - Flavored Dishes: Chrysanthemum can be used to make a variety of dishes, such as chrysanthemum soup, chrysanthemum - stuffed dumplings, and chrysanthemum - scented rice. These dishes not only have a unique flavor but also offer health benefits.

• Lamb Hot Pot: In northern China, especially in Beijing, lamb hot pot is a popular dish during the Double Ninth Festival. The warm and nourishing broth is believed to help people stay healthy in the cold autumn weather.

▶ Symbolic Foods & Their Meanings

• Chestnuts: Their round shape and hard shell symbolize strength and good fortune. Eating chestnuts during the festival is believed to bring prosperity and success.
• Ginkgo Nuts: Ginkgo trees are known for their longevity, and ginkgo nuts are considered a symbol of a long and healthy life. They are often used in desserts and soups.

▶ Essential Travel Advice

• Book Early: If you plan to visit popular mountain destinations, such as the Fragrant Hills or Huangshan, book your train tickets and accommodations well in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly during the festival.
• Dress Appropriately: The weather in autumn can be unpredictable, especially in mountainous areas. Wear comfortable hiking shoes, layer your clothing, and bring a raincoat or umbrella just in case.
• Respect Local Customs: When visiting elderly people or participating in community activities, be respectful and follow local etiquette. For example, when giving gifts to the elderly, choose something practical and meaningful.

▶ Top 5 Destinations for International Visitors

Huangshan, Anhui:

• Mountain Climbing: Hike the famous West Sea Grand Canyon and Bright Summit Peak, enjoying breathtaking views of the autumn foliage and the sea of clouds.
• Chrysanthemum Culture: Visit local chrysanthemum plantations and learn about the traditional methods of growing and processing these beautiful flowers.

Beijing:

• Fragrant Hills: Take a cable car to the top of the Fragrant Hills and admire the stunning autumn scenery. There are also many cultural activities, such as chrysanthemum exhibitions and traditional performances, held during the festival.
• Respecting the Elderly Events: Participate in community events organized for the elderly, such as health lectures and group exercises, to experience the warm atmosphere of the festival.

Kaifeng, Henan:

• Chrysanthemum Fair: Explore the Kaifeng Chrysanthemum Fair, one of the largest and most famous chrysanthemum exhibitions in China. Marvel at the thousands of chrysanthemum varieties on display and enjoy cultural performances related to the flower.
• Ancient City Tour: Visit the well - preserved ancient city walls and historical sites in Kaifeng, such as the Iron Pagoda and Dragon Pavilion, to learn about the city's rich history and culture.

Lijiang, Yunnan:

• Naxi Minority Traditions: Join the Naxi minority communities in Lijiang for their unique Double Ninth Festival celebrations. Experience traditional dances, music, and handicrafts, and learn about their respect for the elderly and connection with nature.
• Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: Take a trip to the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, where you can enjoy the beautiful autumn scenery and experience the local minority culture at the foot of the mountain.

Pingyao, Shanxi:

• Ancient City Exploration: Wander through the ancient streets of Pingyao, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the well - preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Visit the ancient banks, temples, and courtyards to get a glimpse of the city's prosperous past.
• Double Ninth Customs: Participate in local Double Ninth Festival activities, such as climbing the city walls and wearing cornel twigs, to immerse yourself in the traditional culture.

▶ Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path

• Wuyuan, Jiangxi: Known as the "Most beautiful countryside in China", Wuyuan is a paradise for autumn foliage lovers. During the Double Ninth Festival, you can hike through the ancient villages surrounded by colorful maple trees and rape flowers, and experience the tranquil rural life.
• Dali, Yunnan: In Dali, you can visit the Erhai Lake and climb the Cangshan Mountain. The combination of the crystal - clear lake, snow - capped mountains, and traditional Bai minority villages creates a picturesque scene. Join the local Bai people in their Double Ninth Festival celebrations, such as singing and dancing around the bonfire.

▶ Ancient Origins

• Pre - Qin Period: The Double Nth Festival can be traced back to the pre - Qin period, when people had harvest festivals in autumn to express gratitude to the gods for a bountiful harvest. The number nine was already associated with the yang energy and longevity at that time.
• Han Dynasty: During the Han Dynasty, the tradition of climbing mountains and wearing cornel twigs on the Double Ninth Festival began to take shape. It was also a time when people offered sacrifices to the gods and ancestors to seek blessings for the family.

▶ Modern Adaptations

• Elderly Care Initiatives: In modern China, the Double Nth Festival has been officially designated as the Senior Citizens' Day. The government and various organizations have launched a series of initiatives to improve the living conditions and well - being of the elderly, such as building more senior activity centers and providing free health check - ups.
• Cultural Integration: With the increasing globalization, the Double Nth Festival has also been introduced to other countries and regions with Chinese communities. In some places, it has been combined with local cultural elements, creating a unique fusion of traditions. For example, in some Southeast Asian countries, Chinese descendants celebrate the festival with local music and dance performances.

The Double Nth Festival is a beautiful testament to China's rich cultural heritage and its deep - rooted values of respect for the elderly and harmony with nature. Whether you're climbing a mountain to enjoy the autumn scenery, admiring chrysanthemums in a flower exhibition, or sharing a meal with the elderly, the festival invites you to experience the warmth of family, community, and tradition. Come with an open heart and a sense of adventure, and let the Double Nth Festival fill your journey with unforgettable memories. Welcome to this special festival, where every step is a tribute to longevity and every smile is a celebration of togetherness!