Katie Daly
Updated on: October 11, 2024 1:57 pm GMT
Celebrating a cherished tradition, the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival gathering in Valletta, Malta, showcased the vibrant cultural exchanges between China and Malta through art, poetry, and shared heritage. The event, held on September 13, 2024, was organized by the China Cultural Center in Malta, attracting a diverse group of participants eager to commemorate this significant occasion.
Embracing Tradition Through Poetry and Music
The celebration featured a variety of performances, highlighting the beauty and significance of the Mid-Autumn Festival. Maltese sinologist Salvatore Giuffre made an impression by donning traditional Han clothing and reciting the 7th-century Chinese poem, “Spring River in the Flower Moon Night.” Giuffre’s explanation of the poem brought to life its vivid imagery and themes, enriching the audience’s understanding of this classic piece of Chinese literature.
Following Giuffre’s poignant recital, the audience was treated to a musical performance by Guo Mei, a young Chinese artist, who played a classic composition on the pipa, a traditional pear-shaped stringed instrument. Her performance echoed the lyrical elegance of the poem and added to the enchanting atmosphere of the evening.
Poetic Connections Across Cultures
Albert Marshall, executive chairman of Arts Council Malta, also contributed to the evening’s artistic offerings. He recited his own poem “These Beautiful People from the Remote Mountains of Guangxi,” which draws inspiration from his travels to the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in summer 2019. Marshall’s work emphasizes the importance of fostering cultural appreciation among younger generations, a sentiment resonating throughout the event.
“It’s encouraging to see younger generations from both nations becoming more familiar with each other’s cultures,” remarked Marshall, signaling the event’s focus on building bridges through artistic expression.
Cultural Exchange Activities
The celebratory atmosphere extended beyond performances, as participants engaged in hands-on cultural exchange activities. Attendees were invited to taste traditional mooncakes, a staple of the Mid-Autumn Festival, and take part in making their own mooncakes and Chinese lanterns. These activities provided a practical means for guests to immerse themselves in the customs associated with the festival.
Yuan Yuan, director of the China Cultural Center in Malta, emphasized the role of such events in promoting understanding between the two nations. “Through events like this, the understanding between our peoples deepened,” Yuan expressed, highlighting the festival’s significance in fostering friendship.
Significance of the Mid-Autumn Festival
The Mid-Autumn Festival, celebrated this year on September 17, is traditionally a time for families in China to gather and celebrate togetherness. It reflects centuries-old customs centered around unity, gratitude, and appreciation for the harvest. In recent years, the festival has also become an opportunity for cultural exchange around the globe, allowing communities to learn from each other.
The event in Valletta served not only as a celebration of Chinese culture but also as a testament to Malta’s growing recognition and appreciation of global traditions.
Looking Toward the Future
As cultural exchanges continue to flourish between China and Malta, events like the Mid-Autumn Festival gathering play a crucial role in strengthening ties. By integrating aspects of both cultures through poetry, music, and hands-on activities, participants not only celebrate a significant holiday but also inspire ongoing dialogue and friendship between their nations.
The successful event reflects a positive trend towards cultural appreciation, emphasizing the importance of understanding and collaboration in an increasingly interconnected world. The China Cultural Center in Malta remains committed to providing such platforms for cultural engagements, nurturing lasting relationships across borders.
Both countries are working together to celebrate their traditions. They believe that by sharing their cultures, they can build a future filled with respect and understanding. This shows how powerful cultural exchanges can be in bringing people from different backgrounds together.
