Katie Daly
Updated on: October 11, 2024 11:00 pm GMT
The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is an occasion rich in tradition and culture, celebrated not only in China but also across the globe, including in Australia. This year, the festivities in Melbourne promise a variety of events that capture the essence of this cherished celebration, which falls on Tuesday, September 17, 2024.
Cultural Celebrations in Melbourne
Melbourne is set to host an array of activities that reflect the vibrancy of the Mid-Autumn Festival. The city’s diverse community will come together to enjoy cultural performances, delicious food, and family-friendly events.
Chinatown’s Golden Square Celebration
One of the highlight events will take place at Chinatown’s Golden Square Carpark on Saturday, September 14. This festival offers a lively atmosphere with:
- Lion and dragon dances
- Sichuan face-changing performances
- Live music
- An assortment of food stalls
Attendees can indulge in various culinary delights from local restaurants and bars while enjoying traditional performances.
Activities at the Museum of Chinese Australian History
On Sunday, September 15, the Museum of Chinese Australian History will host several engaging activities, including:
- Mooncake-making demonstrations
- Mooncake decorating workshops
- Lantern-making classes
These hands-on workshops aim to immerse visitors in the creative aspects of the festival.
Participants at the Chinatown festivities can enjoy various traditional and modern cultural displays.
Queen Victoria Market Festivities
The celebrations at Queen Victoria Market will take place over the weekend of September 21-22. This event will include:
- Chinese street food stalls
- Live entertainment
- Cultural workshops
Attendees can enjoy the lively atmosphere and interact with various food vendors and performers.
Yum Cha Gatherings
For those preferring a more intimate celebration, having a yum cha lunch is a perfect choice. This traditional meal allows families and friends to enjoy a wide range of dim sum dishes at their own pace. Some recommended yum cha spots in Melbourne include:
- Crystal Jade Restaurant
- David’s (bottomless option)
- Oriental Teahouse
- Red Door Yum Cha
- Shu (vegan options)
- Mahjong Restaurant
This communal dining experience is ideal for celebrating the festival without the hustle and bustle of large events.
Fed Square’s Cultural Fest
The annual Chinese Traditional Cultural Festival returns to Federation Square on September 21-22. This two-day event will feature:
- Traditional performances
- Food stalls
- Kid’s activities, such as paper lantern crafting
- Mooncake tastings
Families can enjoy a rich cultural experience while sampling various cuisines and participating in activities.
Specialty Mooncakes in Melbourne
The Mid-Autumn Festival wouldn’t be complete without the iconic mooncakes. This year, Le Yeahllow has introduced a luxurious Jade Ring Mooncake priced at $106, which serves five to eight people. This specialty cake features:
- Genmaicha Bavarian cream
- Coconut dacquoise
- Salted egg yolk crèmeux
- Chocolate feuilletine
Additionally, Aurum Poultry Co. has teamed up with Chef Jo Chan to create limited-edition mooncakes showcasing salted duck eggs, available in decadent flavors:
- White lotus mooncake with salted egg yolk
- Custard mooncake
These gourmet selections underline Melbourne’s commitment to offering quality culinary experiences during the festival.
Handan University’s Celebration
In a spirit of cultural exchange, students and teachers from Handan University in China participated in a festival welcoming activity ahead of the Mid-Autumn Festival. The event included:
- Making lanterns
- Tasting mooncakes
- Learning calligraphy from a master
- Performing stories based on Chinese idioms
According to President Wang Xianming, the event aimed to blend traditional Chinese culture with an opportunity for international students to appreciate the unique charm of Handan.
Join the Festivities
The Mid-Autumn Festival in Melbourne is a great time to experience Chinese culture with delicious food, fun performances, and community activities. You can join in big celebrations or just enjoy a cozy yum cha meal with friends and family. There are many different events happening all over the city, so everyone can find something they like. This September, come join the fun and celebrate together under the beautiful autumn moon!
