Lily the Bunny voted as This Year’s Mid-Autumn Mascot
As lanterns light up the night sky and mooncakes fill family tables, this year’s Mid-Autumn Festival introduces a new and heartwarming face: Lily the Bunny. Unlike the usual cartoon mascots of past celebrations, Lily is a real, fluffy white rabbit chosen to embody the warmth, joy, and togetherness of the holiday.
A Symbol of the Moon’s Spirit
In Chinese tradition, the moon rabbit—known as Yutu (玉兔)—is said to live on the moon with the goddess Chang’e, tirelessly pounding elixirs of immortality. This year, organizers decided to bring that legend to life through Lily, whose gentle nature and playful hops have already made her a festival favorite. With her soft white fur and pink nose, she perfectly mirrors the purity and serenity associated with the moon itself.
Meet Lily
Lily was adopted from a local rescue center earlier this year and quickly became the star of festival preparations. Her caretakers describe her as curious yet calm, often seen munching on small mooncake-shaped treats made from carrots and oats. Photos of Lily posing beside lanterns and glowing mooncakes have spread widely online, earning her thousands of fans across social media.
A Celebration of Compassion
Beyond her cuteness, Lily also represents compassion—a value central to the Mid-Autumn spirit. This year’s festival theme, “Light for All Beings,” emphasizes kindness toward all creatures under the same moon. By featuring a real rescued animal as the mascot, organizers hope to inspire families to show care for animals and the environment.
Hopping Toward the Future
As the full moon rises, Lily will make special appearances at community events, children’s storytelling sessions, and charity gatherings throughout the month. Her gentle presence reminds everyone that even in a world of glowing lights and digital screens, a touch of real-life warmth can make the celebration truly meaningful.
This Mid-Autumn Festival, as families gather to admire the moon, they’ll also think of Lily—the bunny who brought the legend of Yutu to life and reminded everyone that love, kindness, and togetherness shine brightest under the same moon.
