<P> Imperial dishes served on this occasion included nine - jointed lotus roots which symbolize peace, and watermelons cut in the shape of lotus petals which symbolize reunion . Teacups were placed on stone tables in the garden, where the family would pour tea and chat, waiting for the moment when the full moon's reflection appeared in the center of their cups . Owing to the timing of the plant's blossoms, cassia wine is the traditional choice for the "reunion wine" drunk on the occasion . Also, people will celebrate by eating cassia cakes and candy . </P> <P> Food offerings made to deities are placed on an altar set up in the courtyard, including apples, pears, peaches, grapes, pomegranates, melons, oranges, and pomelos . One of the first decorations purchased for the celebration table is a clay statue of the Jade Rabbit . In Chinese folklore, the Jade Rabbit was an animal that lived on the moon and accompanied Chang'e . Offerings of soy beans and cockscomb flowers were made to the Jade Rabbit . </P> <P> Nowadays, in southern China, people will also eat some seasonal fruit that may differ in different district but carrying the same meaning of blessing . </P> <P> In Vietnam, cakes and fruits are not only consumed, but elaborately prepared as food displays . For example, glutinous rice flour and rice paste are molded into familiar animals . Pomelo sections can be fashioned into unicorns, rabbits, or dogs . Villagers of Xuân La, just north of Hanoi, produce tò he, figurines made from rice paste and colored with natural food dyes . Into the early decades of the twentieth century of Vietnam, daughters of wealthy families would prepare elaborate centerpieces filled with treats for their younger siblings . Well - dressed visitors could visit to observe the daughter's handiwork as an indication of her capabilities as a wife in the future . Eventually the practice of arranging centerpieces became a tradition not just limited to wealthy families . </P>

One of the five major festivals of chinese culture is the festival of the hungry what