Celebrating the Double Ninth Festival in the Workplace

As the Double Ninth Festival, also known as Chongyang Festival, graces our workplace calendar, autumn blankets the world in vibrant hues, and chrysanthemums bloom in gardens, we find ourselves immersed in a celebration steeped in rich cultural and symbolic significance.

This traditional observance falls on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month and serves as a meaningful occasion for us in the professional realm. It's a time to honor the wisdom of our colleagues, seek balance and prosperity, and draw inspiration from the beauty of the changing season.

In this workplace-centric blog, we'll embark on a journey deep into the heart of the Double Ninth Festival. We'll explore its historical roots, delve into the legends that breathe life into it, and uncover the customs and traditions that make it a unique and enriching experience in our work environment.

But that's not all – we'll also equip you with heartfelt messages to share with your coworkers, especially those with more experience, to express your gratitude and admiration.

Whether you're looking for ways to celebrate, extend warm wishes, or simply gain a better understanding of this beautiful festival and how it relates to your workplace, you've come to the right place. Join us in commemorating the Double Ninth Festival with grace, wisdom, and a dash of modernity in our professional lives.

Origin of Double Ninth Festival

The Double Ninth Festival, also known as Chongyang Festival, has its origins in ancient Chinese beliefs and practices. Here is the legend associated with the festival's origin:

During the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220 AD), there was a malevolent spirit associated with the Ruhe River that brought illness and death to the people. This malevolent spirit, often referred to as a plague-bearing monster, would cause widespread suffering and death whenever it appeared in the area.

In this time of hardship, there was a man named Huan Jing. Tragically, his parents fell victim to the plague, and Huan Jing himself was gravely ill but managed to recover. Filled with determination to rid his community of this scourge, Huan Jing embarked on a journey to learn magic and martial skills.

After an extensive search, he came to know of an ancient hill in the east where a Taoist immortal with exceptional powers resided. Guided by a sacred crane, Huan Jing reached the hill and was accepted as a disciple by the Taoist. He was taught the art of swordplay and given a sword to exorcise devils.

One day, the Taoist informed Huan Jing that the plague-bearing monster would return on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month, and it was now time for Huan Jing to save the people. The Taoist gave him a bag of zhuyu leaves (a type of plant) and a bottle of chrysanthemum wine, enlightened him on exorcism techniques, and directed him to ride the sacred crane back home.

Huan Jing returned to his hometown on the morning of the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. He gathered all the villagers on a nearby hill and distributed zhuyu leaves and cups of chrysanthemum wine, as instructed by the Taoist. At noon, the plague-bearing monster emerged from the Ruhe River with loud roars.

However, upon smelling the fragrance of the zhuyu leaves and wine, it was momentarily weakened. Seizing this opportunity, Huan Jing descended the hill, engaged in a fierce battle, and ultimately defeated the monster.

From that point forward, the tradition of climbing to high places on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month to fend off plagues was established. This legend has been passed down through generations and is intimately tied to the customs and beliefs associated with the Double Ninth Festival.

10 Customs and activities for Double Ninth Festival

The Double Ninth Festival, also known as Chongyang Festival, is celebrated with various customs and activities that hold cultural and symbolic significance. Here are some of the traditional practices associated with the festival:

1. Climbing mountains

This is one of the most prominent customs of the Double Ninth Festival. People often climb high places or mountains, symbolizing the pursuit of higher goals and the overcoming of challenges. It is believed that ascending to elevated places helps ward off misfortune and bring good luck.

2. Appreciating Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums are the designated flower for the festival, symbolizing longevity, endurance, and vitality. Many people visit gardens or parks to enjoy the beauty of chrysanthemum blooms.

3. Planting Zhuyu

Zhuyu, a plant steeped in symbolic significance, plays a prominent role in the festivities of the Double Ninth Festival. Revered for its purported ability to ward off malevolent spirits and usher in good fortune, it holds a cherished place in Chinese folklore. Many partake in the tradition of planting zhuyu leaves, cultivating a living shield against negative energies. 

4. Eating Chongyang cakes

Chongyang cakes, also known as Flower Cakes or Chrysanthemum Cakes, are a traditional treat for the festival. These cakes are typically made in layers, resembling a tower, and are often topped with symbolic decorations.

5. Drinking Chrysanthemum Wine

During the Double Ninth Festival, chrysanthemum wine holds a cherished place as a favored beverage. This libation is not only relished for its delightful aroma and taste but is also believed to confer health benefits.

Elevate the festivities with gift cards from esteemed brands such as Total Wine, Opus One, and Krug, adding a touch of opulence to your celebrations. Xoxoday gift cards present a hassle-free avenue to discover these exquisite choices, enhancing the joy of the Mid-Autumn Festival.

6. Respecting the elderly

In modern times, the Double Ninth Festival has been designated as a day to show respect and care for the elderly. It is a time for families to gather and spend quality time with their older relatives.

7. Autumn outings

Many people organize outings during the festival, especially for older family members. This provides an opportunity for them to enjoy nature and the beauty of autumn.

8. Burning paper offerings 

In certain regions, a poignant and time-honored custom during the Double Ninth Festival involves the solemn act of burning paper clothes and other symbolic offerings. This heartfelt gesture serves as a profound way to pay homage to departed family members and ancestors. 

9. Practicing traditional arts

Some communities may organize events showcasing traditional arts and crafts, such as calligraphy, painting, or performances of classical music and dance.

10. Attending festive events 

Various cultural and community events may be held, including pardes, performances, and exhibitions related to the Double Ninth Festival.

These customs and activities reflect the festival's roots in ancient beliefs while also incorporating modern values, such as the emphasis on honoring the elderly. The Double Ninth Festival serves as a time for reflection, family bonding, and appreciation for the natural world.

To celebrate in a workplace

As the Double Ninth Festival arrives, marking a time of reflection and appreciation for the wisdom of our seniors, it's crucial to encourage their well-being, both physically and mentally health, in our workplace. 

Extend a supportive hand by championing their participation in physical activities and promoting mental health. Provide a diverse array of options, allowing them to choose what resonates most with them.

This could involve engaging fitness challenges with enticing rewards, or offering a spectrum of online and offline subscriptions, ranging from gym memberships to virtual yoga classes, as well as access to fitness and nutrition consultations.

In the spirit of the Double Ninth Festival, let us also remember the significance of inner balance and harmony. Empower our senior employees to prioritize their mental health, providing them with an assortment of tools and resources. 

This may include opportunities for personal therapy sessions, insightful stress management workshops, or subscriptions to innovative meditation and relaxation apps, tailored to enhance their well-being, manage stress, improve sleep patterns, and more. 

By nurturing both physical and mental wellness, we honor the essence of this festival, embracing the wisdom of our elders in a holistic and meaningful way.

30 Messages for senior citizens employees 

Here are 30 messages for senior citizen employees on Double Ninth Festival

1. Wishing you a day filled with joy, good health, and prosperity on this Double Ninth Festival. Your wisdom and guidance inspire us all.
2. May the Double Ninth Festival bring you happiness, good fortune, and the warmth of cherished moments with loved ones. Your leadership is a beacon for us all.
3. On this auspicious day, may you continue to climb new heights of success and inspire us with your wisdom. Happy Double Ninth Festival!
4. As we celebrate the Double Ninth Festival, may your life be as vibrant and enduring as the chrysanthemums. Your leadership is a source of strength for us.
5. Wishing you a day filled with peace, prosperity, and good company. Your dedication and hard work inspire us all. Happy Double Ninth Festival!
6. May the Double Ninth Festival be a day of reflection, joy, and gratitude for you. Your wisdom has been a guiding light for all of us.
7. On this special day, may you be blessed with good health, happiness, and success. Your leadership is a treasure for our organization. Happy Double Ninth Festival!
8. Your experience and wisdom have shaped our journey towards success. Wishing you a Happy Double Ninth Festival filled with joy and fulfillment.
9. As we celebrate the Double Ninth Festival, may the beauty of chrysanthemums brighten your day, and the warmth of family and friends bring you joy.
10. Your contributions to our team are immeasurable. Wishing you a Double Ninth Festival filled with happiness, prosperity, and good health.
11. May the Double Ninth Festival bring you an abundance of joy, prosperity, and cherished moments with loved ones. Your guidance has been invaluable to us.
12. Your leadership has been a source of inspiration for us all. Wishing you a Happy Double Ninth Festival filled with joy, good health, and success.
13. On this Double Ninth Festival, may you find peace, joy, and inspiration in every moment. Your dedication to excellence is greatly appreciated.
14. Your wisdom and experience have been a guiding force for our team. Wishing you a Happy Double Ninth Festival filled with joy, good health, and success.
15. May the Double Ninth Festival be a day of reflection and rejuvenation for you. Your contributions have made a lasting impact on our organization.
16. As we celebrate the Double Ninth Festival, may your days be filled with good health, happiness, and cherished memories with loved ones.
17. Your leadership is the cornerstone of our success. Wishing you a Happy Double Ninth Festival filled with prosperity, joy, and fulfillment.
18. On this special day, may you be surrounded by the love of family and friends. Your wisdom and guidance continue to inspire us all. Happy Double Ninth Festival!
19. Your dedication to excellence is commendable. Wishing you a Double Ninth Festival filled with peace, prosperity, and cherished moments.
20. May the Double Ninth Festival bring you the joy of accomplishment and the warmth of cherished relationships. Your contributions are truly valued.
21. Your leadership has been instrumental in our achievements. Wishing you a Happy Double Ninth Festival filled with joy, good health, and prosperity.
22. On this auspicious day, may you find peace, joy, and inspiration in every moment. Your wisdom and experience are a guiding light for us.
23. Your dedication to our team's success is truly commendable. Wishing you a Double Ninth Festival filled with happiness, prosperity, and good health.
24. As we celebrate the Double Ninth Festival, may the beauty of chrysanthemums remind you of the beauty you bring to our team. Happy Double Ninth Festival!
25. Your guidance and support have been invaluable to our team. Wishing you a Happy Double Ninth Festival filled with joy, good health, and success.
26. May the Double Ninth Festival be a day of reflection and rejuvenation for you. Your contributions have made a lasting impact on our organization.
27. Your leadership is the driving force behind our achievements. Wishing you a Happy Double Ninth Festival filled with prosperity, joy, and fulfillment.
28. On this special day, may you be surrounded by the love of family and friends. Your wisdom and guidance continue to inspire us all. Happy Double Ninth Festival!
29. Your dedication to excellence is commendable. Wishing you a Double Ninth Festival filled with peace, prosperity, and cherished moments.
30. May the Double Ninth Festival bring you the joy of accomplishment and the warmth of cherished relationships. Your contributions are truly valued. Happy Double Ninth Festival!

Conclusion

Double Ninth Festival is a celebration deeply rooted in Chinese culture, offering a unique opportunity to honor the elderly, connect with nature, and seek blessings for the future. By embracing the rich traditions of climbing, chrysanthemum appreciation, and the sharing of special treats like Chongyang cakes, we can find joy in the simplicity of these customs.

Moreover, the modern significance of showing respect and care for our seniors adds a layer of contemporary relevance to this ancient festival. As we gather with loved ones on this auspicious day, let us reflect on the wisdom and guidance that our elders provide, and express our gratitude through thoughtful messages and acts of kindness.

With this guide, we hope you've gained valuable insights into celebrating the Double Ninth Festival in a way that is both meaningful and enjoyable. May this festival bring you and your family a day filled with joy, prosperity, and cherished moments. 

Happy Double Ninth Festival!