The Chinese believe that the harvest moon is the fullest, brightest moon of the year and they celebrate its annual appearance by proceeding en masse to parks, hillsides, riverbanks and seashores to gaze at "The Lady in the Moon", nibble on tasty snacks and drink wine. According to Chinese legend, Chang-Er, beautiful wife of the Tang emperor Ming Huang, one day discovered a vial of the Elixir of Immortality specially prepared for her husband and decided to take a sip. But he caught her in the act and in order to conceal evidence, she quickly swallowed the entire portion. It took effect instantly and with such intensity that she immediately flew up from earth and landed on the moon. She’s been there ever since and on this night her beauty radiates at her very best. This festival is celebrated by exchanging gifts of moon cakes, which are large round pastries stuffed with sweet-bean paste, mashed dates, chopped nuts, minced dried fruits and other fillings.