July 18th marked a significant occasion for the world's only set of panda triplets' eldest sibling, "Meng Meng," as her newborn cub, affectionately termed "Meng Er Dai" (Second Generation of Meng), reached its one-month milestone. A festive ceremony celebrating the cub's full moon was held at the Guangzhou Chimelong Giant Panda Center, with numerous visitors and families gathering to witness the joyful event.
Imbued with rich Cantonese traditions, the event offered guests more than just a glimpse of the adorable panda offspring. Visitors received red eggs, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune, and participated in engaging activities such as a "full moon feast" for the baby panda, all contributing to a heartwarming celebration of "Meng Er Dai's" thriving growth.
The panda caretakers thoughtfully prepared Cantonese-style red eggs as part of the full moon festivities, distributing them to lucky attendees. Red eggs, considered auspicious in Chinese culture, convey blessings of fertility, happiness and well-being, mirroring the joy and optimism surrounding the birth of a new life.
At the scene, the iconic "Meng Shuai Ku" (Meng, Shuai, and Ku) triplet mascots distributed the red eggs within the Triplets Panda City, joined by their friend "Red Egg Buddy." The entire panda family at the park shared in the celebration, enjoying a special "red egg" afternoon tea, offering their support and blessings to "Meng Meng" and her newborn.
According to the caretakers, "Meng Er Dai" is experiencing rapid growth, with its appearance changing daily. Within a month, the cub's weight has multiplied significantly, reaching 1,230 grams. While its eyes remain closed, they are expected to open in the coming days. Despite being just a month old, the cub exudes energy, with strong limbs and an occasional playful wave of its tiny paws. Its endearing expressions, including a tilted head and soft yawns, have captivated the hearts of all who have seen it.
From July 18th onwards, visitors can now observe the panda cub and its mother's heartwarming interactions during limited timed sessions. This unique opportunity allows guests to witness the "mini version" of the charming panda up close.
Furthermore, Chimelong is preparing to celebrate the 10th birthday of the iconic panda triplets at the newly upgraded Triplets Panda City towards the end of the month. The event will bring together panda conservation experts, celebrities, and 50 sets of triplet families from around the world, offering visitors an unforgettable experience of uncovering the mysteries of these rare national treasures, learning about animal conservation, and enjoying exciting recreational activities.
The sight of abundant red eggs on display at the lobbies of Chimelong Hotel and Chimelong Panda Hotel has become a stunning attraction, drawing the attention of many guests who eagerly collect these symbols of good luck and offer their best wishes to the panda cub.
Ms. Zhang, a guest at Chimelong Hotel, happily accepted a red egg alongside her child, saying, "The panda cub's full moon is a joyous occasion. By taking these red eggs, we hope to share the happiness with our family."
From July 18th to 20th, Chimelong will distribute these red eggs to hotel guests free of charge, between 11 am and 3 pm daily, inviting everyone to partake in the jubilant festivities.
During the full moon ceremony, a culinary "master" presented exquisite golden-hued enrichment treats for "Meng Meng" and "Meng Er Dai," while children participated in a "DIY Joyful Egg" activity, expressing their well-wishes for the panda baby through creative artwork. One child shared, "I wrote 'Happy' on my egg, hoping the panda baby will stay happy every day and grow up quickly so we can be friends."
Reporter | Clarice
Photo | Nanfang Plus
Editor | Abby, James
