October 29, 2025, is China's Double Ninth Festival.
The Double Ninth Festival falls on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month, also called the Double Ninth Festival, Climbing Festival, or Respect for the Elderly Festival.
On this day, people celebrate the harvest, pray for health and longevity, and express respect and blessings to the elderly.
This year's Double Ninth Festival is different from previous years.
Because the date is later than usual, it is called the "Late Double Ninth."
People often say: "An early Double Ninth is warm, a late Double Ninth is cold."
This means that if the Double Ninth comes late, the winter might be colder.
This year's Double Ninth Festival is after the Frost Descent solar term, and the weather has started to cool, with autumn feeling stronger in many places.
The Double Ninth Festival has a long history.
In ancient times, people would honor their ancestors, climb heights, admire chrysanthemums, and drink chrysanthemum wine in autumn, hoping for family safety and good health.
Later, this day also became a festival to respect the elderly.
Many schools and communities hold activities inviting elderly people to climb mountains, have meals together, and listen to music, making the festival warmer.
Autumn weather is dry, and doctors remind everyone to pay attention to health care around the Double Ninth Festival.
You can drink more water, eat more pears, white fungus, lilies, and other foods that moisten dryness, and eat less spicy food.
Moderate exercise and going to bed early and getting up early are also good for the body.
Whether the Double Ninth is early or late, this day represents gratitude and blessings.
Climbing high to look far, admiring chrysanthemums, tasting delicious food, and spending time with family are all good ways to celebrate the Double Ninth Festival.