The Double Ninth Festival 11 October

The Double Ninth Festival, also known as Chongyang Festival (重阳节), is a traditional Chinese holiday celebrated on the ninth day of the ninth month in the lunar calendar, which typically falls in October. This ancient festival has deep cultural significance, representing themes of longevity, respect for elders, and the pursuit of health and happiness. Its origins can be traced back over 2,000 years to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE), and it remains a meaningful day in Chinese society, blending customs of remembrance, well-being, and family togetherness.

Historical Origins

The festival derives its name from the combination of the number nine, which is considered yang (阳) or positive in traditional Chinese cosmology, associated with strength and vitality. In Taoist thought, the doubling of this "yang" energy (ninth day of the ninth month) creates a powerful force that needs to be balanced, which is where the traditions of dispelling bad luck and honoring health emerge.

A popular legend associated with the festival involves a man named Huan Jing. During the Han Dynasty, a wise man told Huan Jing that a disaster was approaching on the ninth day of the ninth month. Huan Jing took his family to the mountains to avoid the disaster, and when they returned, they found that everything had been destroyed. This story contributed to the custom of climbing mountains to avoid misfortune.

Traditions and Customs

Several customs are observed during the Double Ninth Festival, all of which are centered around family, health, and respect for elders.

Climbing Mountains (登高): Traditionally, people would climb mountains or visit high places to ward off evil and to celebrate longevity. Today, the act of climbing symbolizes aspirations for a long, healthy life. In more urban settings, people might visit parks or scenic areas, keeping the spirit of the custom alive.

Chrysanthemum Symbolism: The chrysanthemum flower plays an important role in the festival. Chrysanthemum displays and drinking chrysanthemum tea or wine are popular practices. Chrysanthemums symbolize longevity, and their association with this time of year makes them a key part of the celebration.

Kite Flying: In some regions, people fly kites on the Double Ninth Festival as a way to enjoy the autumn weather and send their best wishes to the sky.

Wearing Cornel (插茱萸): Another tradition involves wearing cornel (zhuyu, 茱萸), a type of plant believed to have protective properties. It is often worn to ward off evil spirits or illness.

Honoring Ancestors and Elders: In many parts of China, the Double Ninth Festival has evolved into a day to honor and care for the elderly. Families gather to show their respect for older generations, often bringing them gifts or organizing family meals. Visiting the graves of ancestors to pay respects and offer sacrifices is also common, similar to the Qingming Festival in the spring.

Modern Significance

In contemporary China, the Double Ninth Festival has been designated as Elderly Day (敬老节, Jìnglǎo Jié), placing an emphasis on the care and appreciation of senior citizens. This reflects the Confucian value of filial piety, which is central to Chinese culture. The festival serves as a reminder to appreciate and support the elderly, who are considered the custodians of family wisdom and tradition.

While some of the older customs like wearing cornel are less practiced in modern times, the core values of family togetherness, health, and respect for elders remain strong. Schools, community organizations, and local governments often organize special events to honor senior citizens, reinforcing the significance of the festival.

Foods and Drinks

Chrysanthemum wine (菊花酒) is the most famous beverage associated with the Double Ninth Festival. In ancient times, people believed that chrysanthemum wine could cleanse the body and prolong life. Alongside this, double ninth cakes (重阳糕), also known as chrysanthemum cakes, are often eaten. These cakes are sometimes made with layers to symbolize the climbing of mountains and the pursuit of higher aspirations.

Double Ninth Around the World

The Double Ninth Festival is also observed in other parts of East Asia, such as in Japan, where it is known as Kiku no Sekku or the Chrysanthemum Festival. In Korea, the day is celebrated as Jungyangjeol, with similar themes of health and longevity.

Conclusion

The Double Ninth Festival is a deeply rooted celebration of life, health, and family, blending ancient traditions with modern values. While it began as a way to ward off danger and misfortune, it has evolved into a day to honor the elderly and reflect on the importance of maintaining a harmonious and healthy life. As families climb mountains, drink chrysanthemum wine, and pay respects to ancestors, they are participating in rituals that have persisted for millennia, ensuring that this rich cultural legacy continues into the future.