Families gather under the full moon, sharing a mooncake cut into precise wedges—one for each family member—reinforcing the theme of unity. They are also the most important gift during the season; exchanging ornate boxes of mooncakes among family, friends, and business associates is a gesture of respect and goodwill. This gifting culture, however, has also led to controversy, with some boxes becoming extravagantly expensive, featuring luxury items like gold leaf or fine spirits, turning a traditional symbol into a token of corporate gift-giving and social status.