The Mid-Autumn Festival is a traditional Chinese festival celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month. A 'background gradient' in a poster typically refers to a visual effect where the colors gradually blend from one to another, creating a smooth transition between shades. This technique is often used in graphic design to add depth and visual interest to the poster. In the context of a Mid-Autumn Festival poster, a gradient might be used to represent the sky, moon, or the colors of autumn, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the design.