Each fall, families across China look forward to one of the most important holiday seasons of the year: Golden Week and the Mid-Autumn Festival. While these holidays may not be widely observed in the U.S., they hold deep cultural significance for Chinese students studying abroad. As a host family, you have a wonderful opportunity to help your student feel connected to home and share in meaningful traditions.
What is Golden Week?
Golden Week takes place at the beginning of October and begins with China’s National Day (October 1), celebrating the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Schools and businesses often close for several days, giving families extended time off to travel, visit relatives, and celebrate together. For many students, it is a time of family connection and national pride.
The Mid-Autumn Festival
This year with a rare overlapping with Golden Week is the Mid-Autumn Festival—sometimes called the Moon Festival. It is celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, when the moon is believed to be at its fullest and brightest. Traditionally, families gather for dinner, admire the moon, and enjoy mooncakes, a round pastry filled with sweet or savory fillings that symbolize unity and togetherness.
How You Can Celebrate at Home
Even though your student is far from their family this fall, there are simple and thoughtful ways to celebrate Golden Week and the Mid-Autumn Festival in your home:
- Share a special meal: Ask your student about their favorite holiday foods. You might try making dumplings, noodles, or visiting a local Asian market together to find traditional treats.
- Try mooncakes: These pastries can sometimes be found in Chinese bakeries or international grocery stores in the U.S. Sharing mooncakes with your student is a meaningful way to mark the occasion.
- Enjoy the moon together: Take a moment on the night of the festival to step outside, admire the moon, and talk about the tradition of families gathering under the same sky—even if they are far apart.
- Learn together: Invite your student to share their memories of past Golden Weeks and how their family celebrates. This not only makes them feel valued but also deepens cultural exchange in your home.
Why It Matters
Celebrating holidays like Golden Week and the Mid-Autumn Festival helps international students feel recognized and supported while they’re away from home. For host families, it’s a chance to build lasting bonds, learn about new traditions, and make your student feel truly at home.
By sharing in these traditions, you’re not only honoring your student’s culture but also creating warm memories that will last a lifetime.
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