Your Ultimate Guide to Chung Yeung Festival 2025 in Hong Kong
Your Ultimate Guide to Chung Yeung Festival 2025 in Hong Kong
The Chung Yeung Festival, also known as the Double Ninth Festival, will be celebrated on 29 October 2025. This date corresponds to the ninth day of the ninth month in the lunar calendar, marking a significant occasion in the Chinese tradition.
Origins and Legends
Chung Yeung Festival boasts a rich history, with its origins tracing back over 2,000 years. One of the most popular legends involves a man from the Han dynasty who was advised by a sage to climb a mountain with his family on the ninth day of the ninth month. This advice saved them from a disaster that claimed the lives of their fellow villagers. Consequently, the tradition of ascending heights on this day has become a symbol of avoiding misfortune.
What to Do During the Festival
Climbing Mountains
Following the festival’s legends, families often embark on hikes or mountain climbs. The pleasant autumn weather makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities, and reaching new heights carries auspicious meanings.
Ancestral Grave Visits
In Hong Kong and Macau, Chung Yeung is closely associated with visiting ancestral graves. Families clean the tombstones, offer food, and pay respects to their ancestors. Many burial sites are located on hills, thus fulfilling the tradition of climbing.
Kite Flying
Another festive activity is flying kites, believed to carry away bad fortune. However, it’s considered unlucky to pick up fallen kites, so be mindful!
Traditional Foods
Food plays a vital role in the festivities.
Chrysanthemum Wine: This drink is closely linked to the festival and is thought to have health benefits, including anti-aging properties.
Chung Yeung Cakes: These steamed rice flour confections are often decorated with jujube, chestnuts, and almonds, making them a delightful seasonal treat.
Chung Yeung & Ching Ming Festival
While both Chung Yeung and Ching Ming involve ancestor worship and grave-sweeping, they have distinct differences:
Timing: Ching Ming occurs in spring, while Chung Yeung is celebrated in autumn.
Focus: Ching Ming is centered on praying for prosperity in the upcoming farming season, whereas Chung Yeung is about giving thanks for past blessings and celebrating the harvest.
As the Chung Yeung Festival approaches, embrace the opportunity to enjoy outdoor adventures, and partake in delicious traditional foods. This vibrant celebration is a beautiful reminder of Hong Kong’s rich cultural heritage!
Do not hesitate to contact us to learn more about local culture, organise city tours or hiking experiences.