Hong Kong Observatory Issues Mid-Autumn Festival Moon-Viewing Guide
AM730 · 2 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago1 MIN
Summary
The Hong Kong Observatory has published its moon-viewing tips for Mid-Autumn Festival 2026, which falls on September 25. Though the full moon will officially peak on September 27 at 00:49, the Observatory confirms that if weather conditions cooperate, residents can enjoy a spectacular view of a large, round moon during the evenings before and after the holiday . The public broadcaster has released detailed lunar schedules covering three days around the festival, including moonrise, transit times, and moonset .
Key Points
- Mid-Autumn Festival falls on September 25, 2026 (Friday)
- Full moon will peak on September 27 at 00:49, the morning after the festival
- Moonrise on the festival day is at 5:20 pm; lunar transit at 11:24 pm (65-degree altitude); moonset at 5:33 am the following morning
- Moonrise on September 24 (day before) is at 4:47 pm; lunar transit at 10:40 pm (58-degree altitude)
- Moonrise on September 26 (day after) is at 5:54 pm; lunar transit at 00:09 am (71-degree altitude); moonset at 6:29 am
Why It Matters
Moon-watching during Mid-Autumn Festival is a cherished tradition in Hong Kong, offering families an opportunity to gather outdoors and appreciate the night sky. The Observatory's detailed predictions allow residents to plan outdoor activities and photo opportunities in advance, particularly for the evening of September 26 when the moon reaches peak brightness and altitude .
Moon-watching during Mid-Autumn Festival is a cherished tradition in Hong Kong, offering families an opportunity to gather outdoors and appreciate the night sky. The Observatory's detailed predictions allow residents to plan outdoor activities and photo opportunities in advance, particularly for the evening of September 26 when the moon reaches peak brightness and altitude .