Widely celebrated in many East Asian communities, the Mid-Autumn Festival is a colourful occasion marked by family gatherings, illuminated lanterns, and mooncakes. While festivities have been scaled back due to the ongoing pandemic, here are four to keep the tradition alight—from floral lantern displays in Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay to jade rabbits reimagined by local artists in Kuala Lumpur.
Mid-Autumn Festival 2020 at Gardens by the Bay, Singapore
Happening from September 18 to October 4, this year’s festivities at the Lion City’s popular nature park will span both onsite and online activities. Visitors can marvel at six lantern sets, including the Apricot Grove, a floral forest-themed one that’s a tribute to healthcare workers. Other highlights include the Colonnade of Lights and Illuminations of Joy at Supertree Grove and Flower Dome—together, the two feature about 2,000 paper lanterns painted by hand by local community groups, social service organisations, and Gardens staff and volunteers. Meanwhile, online activities include performances by Chinese dance troops and craft workshops.
More information here.
Hops and Dreams at Kwai Chai Hong, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Affectionately known as Kai Chai Hong or “Ghost Lane”, KL’s heritage-filled Chinatown is reminiscent of the 1960s. Having undergone a recent facelift and restoration, the site is now home to unique street murals, eateries serving local fare, as well as cafes as bars. For Mid-Autumn festival, eight local artists will each be showcasing their interpretation of the jade rabbit, which will be on display nightly until October 4. Book your table in advance to dine in the midst of these festival-themed art pieces.
More information here.
Yi Peng Lantern Festival, Chiang Mai, Bangkok
Celebrated in Northern Thailand, this sky Lantern Festival coincides with the nationally celebrated Loi Krathong Festival. Held from end October to November 1, the event features lanterns that are lit and released into the skies as a symbol of ridding misfortunes, as well as lotus-shaped rafts that are sent afloat onto the river to wash away bad luck. Highlights include firework displays, performances by the local hill tribes, and more.
More information here.
Virtual Mid-Autumn Festival Workshop, Hong Kong
While major Mid-Autumn events like the Tai Hang Fire Dance and the Victoria Park Lantern Carnival have been cancelled due to the ongoing pandemic, locals and their little ones can get in on the festivities with the Virtual Mid-Autumn Festival Workshop hosted by Mando Kids, Held on Zoom, the event on September 26 will feature workshops where kids can learn Chinese nursery rhymes about the moon, learn about the phases of the moon, enjoy story-telling sessions, as well in participate in arts and crafts.
More information here.
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