Double Ninth Festival 2025

Description

The Double Ninth Festival is a traditional day that honors age and longevity. People see it as a time to show respect for older family members and to think about long life and well being.

It takes place on the ninth day of the ninth month in the Chinese lunar calendar. Because the date follows the lunar calendar, it usually falls in September or October on the regular calendar most people use.

The number nine is important because it is a yang number in old Chinese ideas about balance. Two nines together are seen as especially positive and strong, so the day symbolizes vitality and strength.

In Taiwan the festival is widely observed and carries social meaning. It reminds communities to value elders, to care about aging, and to celebrate family bonds across generations.

The holiday also connects people to history and culture. It helps younger generations remember older traditions and the importance of respect for those who came before them.

Traditions

In Taiwan many families climb hills or visit parks to enjoy chrysanthemums. People join group hikes or short mountain trips. They also attend chrysanthemum shows and take photos among the flowers to mark the day.

Foods include chrysanthemum tea and chrysanthemum wine. Families eat chongyang cake made from rice flour with nuts, dried fruits and sometimes layers for sharing. Street stalls sell seasonal snacks and sweets.

Rituals often include visiting ancestors at graves, offering food, fruit and incense. People sweep tombs and light joss sticks. Some households set a small altar at home to present offerings and say brief prayers.

Honoring elders is common. Families visit grandparents, give gifts or oranges, and hold simple meals to wish elders health. Community centers may host gatherings, songs and performances for older people.

Travel Tips

Many banks and government offices close during the festival. Tourist sites and temples get crowded. Book trains, buses, and hotels early. Expect heavy traffic on highways and mountain roads. Bring water and good walking shoes.

Check opening hours for museums and shops before you go. Join guided tours or local events to enjoy safely. Respect signs and barriers on trails. Keep valuables secure and carry a charged phone for maps and emergency calls.