The 2026 Salt City Mid-Autumn Festival is scheduled to take place on September 17, 2026. The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is a traditional Chinese holiday that celebrates the harvest and the moon's fullness. It is typically observed on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, which falls on a different date each year according to the lunar calendar. The festival is characterized by moon-viewing, eating mooncakes, and lighting lanterns. The date of the festival in 2026 is determined by the astronomical alignment of the moon, which is why it is set for September 17. This date is consistent with the historical and cultural significance of the festival, as it aligns with the full moon's appearance in the sky. The festival's timing is also influenced by the Gregorian calendar, which is used in the United States and many other countries for civil purposes. The Mid-Autumn Festival is an important cultural event for the Chinese community in the United States, and it is celebrated with various activities and festivities that reflect the rich heritage and traditions of Chinese culture.