Tsukimi 2024: Celebrate Japan’s Mid-Autumn Festival Under the Full Moon

Every fall in Japan, Tsukimi (the Mid-Autumn Moon Viewing Festival) is celebrated under the full moon. This year, Tsukimi falls on Tuesday, September 17th, 2024, and it’s the perfect time to admire the beauty of the autumn moon.

Tsukimi is all about gathering with family and friends under the moonlight to appreciate the glowing full moon while enjoying delicious treats like dango (sweet rice cakes). This beloved tradition dates back to the Heian period (794-1185), when it was introduced to Japan from China. The clear, crisp autumn air makes the full moon even more radiant against the night sky.

Tsukimi Food 🍡

The most iconic food during Tsukimi season is, of course, Tsukimi dango. However, the celebration has evolved, and now more modern dishes are part of the tradition!

McDonald’s Tsukimi Burger – Japan’s Take on the Pumpkin Spice Latte? 🍔

Just like how the arrival of pumpkin spice lattes signals the start of fall in North America, in Japan, the Tsukimi Burger at McDonald’s marks the arrival of autumn. 

McDonald’s first introduced the Tsukimi Burger in 1991, featuring a fried egg and creamy aurora sauce. Since then, the series has become a seasonal favorite, and McDonald’s releases new variations every September to celebrate the season.

This year, McDonald’s Japan has introduced some intriguing new items, like the Hojun Fuwatoro Tsukimi burger, which pairs rich butter and a soft egg, and the Kinako Mochi and Anko Tsukimi Pie. These seasonal offerings always add a fun twist to Japan’s autumn food traditions—don’t they sound delicious?

Feeling hungry? You can check out this year’s full menu and watch their charming TV commercials here.

Wishing you all a Happy Tsukimi and a clear, moonlit sky! 🌕