In Melbourne, the Mid-Autumn Festival is a vibrant celebration that reflects the city’s multicultural tapestry. Held annually, typically in September to early October, this festival pays homage to Chinese and other Asian traditions while embracing the diverse communities that call Melbourne home.
Melbourne’s Mid-Autumn festival events are a testament to the city’s commitment to cultural diversity, fostering connections, and celebrating the rich tapestry of traditions that make this city a vibrant and inclusive metropolis.
Here are some of the events happening around the city over the next few weeks you can get involved in:
1. The Chinese Traditional Cultural Festival at Fed Square.
Head to Federation Square for the 3rd Chinese Traditional Cultural Festival on 23-24 September, presenting Chinese dance and music performances, traditional Chinese culture shows and Chinese musical instruments.
At the Main Square, immerse yourself in a market adorned with authentic traditional decor, all in honor of the Mid-Autumn Festival. Delight in trying on costumes inspired by ancient Chinese dynasties and engage in hands-on cultural heritage activities like pitch pot, calligraphy, and crafting your own lanterns. It’s a journey into the heart of Chinese traditions, right in the heart of Melbourne.
2. The Queen Victoria Market’s Moon Festival
The Queen Victoria Market Moon Festival is on 23 and 24 September. This is a free two day celebration of harvest and thanksgiving featuring delicious food, cultural performances, live music and interactive activities for the whole family to enjoy.
3. Chinese Museum Autumn Moon Festival Days
Visit the Chinese Museum in Chinatown from 30 September – 1 October to take part in its Autumn Moon Festival Days. There’s a range of family friendly activities on offer including moon cake and lantern making.
4. 14 Nights at the Chinese Museum
30 September – 15 October, Chinatown. The Chinese Museum presents Dusk Till Dawn – 14 Nights at the Museum as part of the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival. Suitable for young and old, including families looking to experience Chinese culture.
Chinatown, nestled in the heart of the city, comes alive with colorful lantern displays, cultural performances, and mouthwatering food stalls. Families gather to enjoy mooncakes, a symbol of unity and togetherness, while marveling at the intricately designed lanterns that adorn the streets.
5. The Richmond Moon Lantern Festival
Victoria Street in Richmond comes alive for the Moon Lantern Festival on 1 October – the last day of the school holidays. The one-day Lantern Festival is a great way for multicultural communities around Victoria Street precinct to enjoy the culturally rich experience of the Vietnamese and Asian traditions.
6. The Melbourne Moon Festival, Box Hill
Taking place on Saturday 30 September in the Box Hill Mall, the Melbourne Moon Festival will be a memorable day out for people of all ages. The event will feature around 45 stalls brimming with diverse cuisines, arts and crafts, alongside an engaging main stage program.
7. The Australia China Friendship Society’s Moon Cake Festival
The Australia China Friendship Society will be holding its Moon Cake Festival on Sunday 24 September 2023! at Level 4, Ross House 247-251 Flinders Lane. Get ready to immerse yourself in a celebration of Chinese culture and tradition. You will also have the chance to indulge in delicious moon cakes, a staple of this festival. Enjoy live music performances, and Chinese tea.
8. Mid-Autumn Festival Lion and Dragon Dance
Join the CMS Lion Dance team for a spectacular 2-hour display of traditional Chinese Lion Dancing, Dragon Dance and Kung Fu Martial Arts demonstrations at the Chinese Museum on Sunday 1 October. There will also be a firecracker display (pending weather). The CMS Lion Dance Team is the oldest in Melbourne and has been entertaining the city since the 1940s.