Although it is still more than a month until the Mid-Autumn Festival, the mooncake market this year has started earlier than ever, with a groundbreaking and meaningful trend: cakes bearing the image of the national flag and map of Vietnam. This is not only a business phenomenon, but also a subtle connection between traditional cuisine and patriotism, creating an unprecedented "fever".
Previously, moon cakes were only known for their traditional shapes such as lotus flowers, carp, or elaborate patterns. However, this year, with just a few photos shared on social networks, moon cakes shaped like the red flag with a yellow star and the map of Vietnam quickly attracted attention. On TikTok, a series of videos introducing and experiencing these cakes have reached hundreds of thousands of views, with countless comments expressing excitement and pride.
The special thing about this year's moon cake season is the overwhelming appearance of cakes with the red flag with yellow star, the map of Vietnam or with colors and shapes reminiscent of these sacred symbols.
The explosion of this trend can be explained by the special time: the whole country is looking forward to the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day September 2. The image of the national flag and the map of the Fatherland is not only a sacred symbol, but also evokes national pride and respect for historical values. Putting these symbols on the moon cake - a dish associated with childhood and traditional holidays - has created a perfect combination, both traditional and modern.
This phenomenon is part of the trend of expressing patriotism and national pride through everyday products and activities, during the days when the whole country is looking forward to the great celebration of the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day September 2.
Not only stopping at the shape, manufacturers also devote a lot of effort to quality and flavor. The popular National Flag-shaped mooncake comes in two shapes: round and square, with a bright red crust made from natural, safe ingredients. The highlight is the five-pointed golden star in the middle, meticulously shaped. The cake filling is also creatively created with a combination of many ingredients, bringing a rich flavor, both familiar and new.
Red flag mooncake with yellow star causes a stir online
One of the most sought-after mooncakes is the triple-layered version, combining taro, mochi, and pork floss. The combination of the fatty taste of taro, the chewy texture of mochi, and the salty-sweet taste of pork floss creates a unique culinary experience. Although the price of these special cakes is 20-40% higher than regular mooncakes, thanks to their special meaning, they have been "sold out" since their launch.
Besides the national flag, cakes shaped like the map of Vietnam – the S-shaped strip of land – also receive no less attention. They are not only a dish, but also a miniature work of art, expressing love and attachment to the homeland and country.
Starting from a few photos shared online, moon cakes shaped like the red flag with a yellow star quickly became a phenomenon and this idea was widely replicated.
Product prices range from 85,000 - 250,000 VND/piece depending on weight and filling type.
Manufacturers not only focus on the cake but also invest in packaging and design to create a difference. Some cake boxes are printed with bronze drum patterns, a symbol of the ancient Dong Son culture. Some cake boxes are even integrated with modern technology, automatically playing the voice reading the Declaration of Independence of President Ho Chi Minh when opening the lid. These unique details have turned the moon cake into a spiritual, emotional gift, making the recipient not only enjoy the taste but also feel the solemnity and sacredness of the holiday.
Each box of cake weighs 150 - 300 grams, with many rich flavors such as mixed, green beans, coconut rice, black sesame, pandan leaves, salted eggs, taro, mochi...
In big cities like Hanoi, many small traders have quickly imported goods very early to catch up with the trend. Production facilities have to operate at full capacity to meet the increasing demand, showing the heat of this market. This trend not only brings economic benefits, but also contributes to fostering love for the homeland and country in the hearts of every Vietnamese person, especially the young generation.
