In celebration of the Mid-Autumn Festival, which will occur on September 17 this year, cities across Guangdong are gearing up for a vibrant array of festivities. From lantern fairs to ancient rituals and immersive folk experiences, here are some of the best choices to celebrate this festival.
Cultural Park Mid-Autumn Lantern Fair, Guangzhou
The Cultural Park will host a spectacular lantern fair featuring 32 large and medium-sized lantern displays and nearly a thousand smaller atmosphere-setting lights. The lanterns blend traditional and modern designs, highlighting the city's achievements in economic growth, cultural heritage, and technological innovation.
(Photo: Guangzhou Liwan Fabu)
There will also be lantern-making competitions, riddle games, and cultural performances, making it a perfect spot to enjoy the festival with family and friends.
(Photo: Guangzhou Liwan Fabu)
⏰Time: September 15 to 17 & and October 1 to 7, 2024
📍Location: No.37, Xiti 2nd Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou (广州市荔湾区西堤二马路37号)
Fire Dragon Dance events in Baiyun District, Guangzhou
On the evening of September 17, unique fire dragon rituals will take place across various villages, such as dragon awakening ceremonies, water blessings, dragon parades, and vibrant fire dragon dances. Junhe Sub-district will feature multiple fire dragon teams performing in Qinghu Village, Pinghe Plaza, and Wangfa Street.
(Photo: Nanfang Daily)
⏰Time: Evening of September 17
📍Locations: Qinghu Village, Shima Village, Luogang Village, Pingsha Village, Pinghe Plaza (清湖村, 石马村, 罗岗村, 平沙村, 平和大押广场)
Cat-themed lantern wonderland in Baiyun Mountain, Guangzhou
From September 12 to November 2, Baiyun Mountain Scenic Area's Yuntai Garden transforms into a dreamy cat-themed lantern wonderland. In collaboration with popular anime, this unique event combines traditional lanterns with educational and interactive displays.
(Photo: Baiyun Mountain Scenic Area)
A series of celebrations will take place from September 15 to 17 at the Peak Square, offering concerts, lantern exhibitions, handicraft workshops, and other cultural experiences. If you're in the mood for something more casual, a coffee-themed bazaar at the Moxing Ridge from September 14 to 17 will be a delightful combination of coffee, music, and festival fun.
(Photo: Baiyun Mountain Scenic Area)
📍Location: No.801, Guangyuan Middle Road, Tonghe Sub-district, Baiyun District, Guangzhou (广州市白云区同和街道广园中路801号)
Zan Hua Festival in Gankeng Ancient Town, Shenzhen
The tradition of wearing hairpin flowers, or "zan hua wei," is a kind of intangible cultural heritage originating from Quanzhou in Fujian. In Shenzhen, Gankeng Ancient Town's Zan Hua Festival on September 17 will offer you a fully immersive experience of Chinese culture. With moon-worship ceremonies, Chinese traditional music, and elegant Hanfu parades, this event brings Tang Dynasty culture back to life. Don't miss out on the vibrant street markets, traditional crafts, and immersive performances.
(Photo: Gankeng Ancient Town)
⏰Time: 10:00-18:00, September 17
📍Location: Phoenix Valley, Gankeng Ancient Town, 18 Ganli Road, Longgang District, Shenzhen (深圳市龙岗区甘李路18号甘坑古镇凤凰谷)
Tip: Hanfu wearers get a 20% discount on tickets.
Cultural carnival in Splendid China Folk Village, Shenzhen
From September 15 to 17, Splendid China Folk Village will host its Mid-Autumn Festival event at the newly-opened Jingxiu Xishi theme block, featuring a massive traditional market, Hanfu parades, lantern riddles, and poetry recitations. Guests can also partake in folk traditions like river lantern releasing and mooncake tasting, and enjoy traditional Chinese folk dance performances as well.
(Photo: Splendid China Folk Village)
⏰Time: September 15 to 17
📍Location: No.9003, Shennan Avenue, Nanshan District, Shenzhen(深圳市南山区深南大道9003号)
Fan Ta burning event in Shangbo community, Foshan
Fan Ta (番塔) burning is a unique custom in Guangdong Province during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Fan Ta is a tower made of bricks and filled with flammable material, ranging from half a meter to ten meters in height.
(Photo: People's Government of Shishan Town)
On the evening of September 16, this ancient tradition will light up the night sky in Foshan's Shangbo Community. With over 600 years of history, this local ritual brings together residents to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival, praying for good weather, and wishing for prosperity.
⏰Time: Evening of September 16
📍Location: Shangbo Community, Shishan Town, Nanhai District, Foshan (佛山市南海区狮山镇上柏社区)
Author: Holly
Poster: Mia
Editor: Monica, Will, James
