重阳：登高赏菊话佳节
The Double Ninth Festival is also called Chongyang Festival. It falls on the ninth day of the ninth month of the Chinese lunar calendar. On this day, people go hiking and climb mountains. People also drink chrysanthemum (菊花) wine and eat chrysanthemum cakes.
The weather during the Double Ninth Festival is clear and crisp. It is usually perfect for outdoor activities. Many people go hiking and climbing in the countryside. It is considered the last outing of the year before winter. People get some exercise while enjoying the beauty of nature.
A popular choice during the Double Ninth Festival is chrysanthemum. In traditional Chinese culture, chrysanthemum flowers are considered a symbol of happiness and good luck. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is often used as a herb. People believe that it can drive away bad luck and prevent them from getting cold in late autumn. That’s why people drink chrysanthemum wine and eat chrysanthemum cakes.
How did these customs come into being? There are many stories behind them. One of them is about Huan Jing.