The Mid-Autumn Festival in Wuhan, China, typically falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month. In 2026, the festival will end on the same day, which is September 17th. This date is based on the traditional lunar calendar, which varies each year. The Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for family reunions, moon gazing, and enjoying mooncakes, a traditional Chinese pastry. The festival's end marks the conclusion of a series of celebrations that began with the Mid-Autumn Festival itself and continued with the Lantern Festival, which is held on the 15th day of the next lunar month. The exact date of the festival's end is determined by the astronomical alignment of the moon and the corresponding day in the lunar calendar.

The Mid-Autumn Festival's significance is rooted in ancient Chinese mythology and celestial events. It is believed that on this day, the moon is at its fullest and brightest, symbolizing completeness and harmony. The festival is also a time to honor the moon goddess, Chang'e, and her husband, Hou Yi, who shot down the nine suns that were causing chaos on Earth. The festival's customs, such as moon gazing and eating mooncakes, are believed to bring good fortune and health to the family.

According to the Chinese Lunar Calendar, the Mid-Autumn Festival is always on the same day of the lunar month, regardless of the Gregorian calendar date. In 2026, the 15th day of the eighth lunar month falls on September 17th. This date is consistent with historical records and astronomical data, which indicate that the moon reaches its fullest phase on this day each year. The end of the festival, therefore, is also on this date, marking the conclusion of the traditional celebrations.

The Mid-Autumn Festival's end is significant not only for its cultural and historical importance but also for its economic impact. In Wuhan and other parts of China, the festival is a major shopping and gift-giving season. Businesses capitalize on the occasion by offering special deals and promotions, and families spend time together, often resulting in increased sales of mooncakes and other festive items. The festival's end, therefore, also signifies the end of a period of economic activity and preparation for the next lunar cycle.