Moon Festival
25
Sep
27
Sep
CELEBRATE TRADITION

Moon Festival

Join us at the Chinese Garden of Friendship as we celebrate the enchanting Moon Festival with cultural activities, music, tradition and more.
When
Friday,
25 Sep 2026
Sunday,
27 Sep 2026

The Moon Festival, also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival, is the second grandest festival in China after Lunar New Year. Celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, it falls in the middle of autumn when the moon is believed to be at its fullest and brightest. In Chinese culture, the full moon symbolises reunion, bringing families and communities together to appreciate the moon and share mooncakes in celebration.

To mark this special occasion, the China Cultural Centre in Sydney, the Chinese Garden of Friendship and the Jiangsu Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism are delighted to present three days of traditional Chinese culture, live performances, hands-on cultural experiences, tea tasting and mooncake activities.

Discover the rich traditions of the Mid-Autumn Festival through a vibrant program of cultural experiences, including traditional Chinese music, calligraphy, Suzhou arts and crafts, tea tasting and mooncake experiences. The celebrations officially begin on Friday 25 September with a spectacular Lion Dance performance at 7pm, followed by live Chinese cultural performances from 7pm to 8pm. Live cultural performances will also take place on Saturday 26 September from 7pm to 8pm.

For a special evening experience, the Chinese Garden of Friendship will extend its opening hours on both Friday 25 and Saturday 26 September, with the lower section of the Garden open until 9pm. Last entry is at 8.30pm.

From colourful performances and interactive workshops to authentic cultural experiences, there is something for everyone to enjoy as you celebrate the Moon Festival in one of Sydney's most beautiful cultural landmarks.

All activity is FREE with your entry to The Chinese Garden of Friendship - ($12 for adults and $8 for children).

Fri 25 September

7pm-8.30pm
Opening Celebration

The celebration will officially launch with a vibrant Lion Dance, traditional Chinese music, singing and dance performances. Throughout the evening, enjoy authentic Chinese tea tasting and mooncake tasting while immersing yourself in the sights, sounds and flavours of this cherished cultural celebration.

The Garden will be open until 9pm with last entry at 8.30pm.

Sat 26 Sun 27 September

10.30am, 1.30pm & 3pm
Chinese Martial Art- Kung Fu
Discover the strength, skill and tradition of Kung Fu in a live martial arts demonstration. Watch expert practitioners showcase dynamic movements, precision techniques and impressive athleticism while exploring one of China's most iconic cultural traditions.
10.30am – 4pm
Suzhou Embroidery (Su Embroidery)

Discover the timeless art of Suzhou embroidery, one of China's most celebrated traditional crafts. With a history spanning more than 2,000 years, Su embroidery is renowned for its intricate stitching, delicate detail and elegant designs, showcasing the extraordinary skill and artistry of Chinese textile traditions.

10.30am – 4pm
Suzhou Fan Art – Decorate Your Own Fan
Discover the timeless art of Suzhou fan making and design your own decorative fan inspired by traditional Chinese painting, calligraphy and cultural motifs. This hands-on workshop offers a creative introduction to one of China's most elegant artistic traditions, allowing participants to create a unique keepsake to take home.
10.30am – 4pm
Xipi Lacquer Bead

Discover the beauty of Xipi lacquer, a traditional Chinese craft celebrated for its flowing patterns, rich layers of colour and distinctive marbled effects. In this hands-on workshop, participants can create their own unique lacquer bead while learning about the artistry and techniques behind this centuries-old decorative tradition.

10.30am – 4pm
Taohuawu Woodblock New Year Prints
Experience the vibrant tradition of Taohuawu Woodblock New Year Prints, a famous folk art originating in Suzhou. Using traditional woodblock printing techniques, participants can explore auspicious Chinese symbols and create their own colourful New Year-inspired artwork while discovering the stories and cultural significance behind this centuries-old artistic tradition.
10.30am – 4pm
Traditional Chinese Tea Tasting
Relax in the tranquil surroundings of the Garden while sampling a selection of traditional Chinese teas. Discover the unique flavours, aromas and rituals of Chinese tea culture, and learn about the history, traditions and cultural significance behind one of China's most cherished practices.
10.30am – 4pm
Chinese Pitch-Pot (Touhu)
Test your skill at Touhu (投壶), an ancient Chinese game dating back more than 2,000 years. Traditionally played by scholars and nobles, the game challenges participants to throw arrows into a decorative pot. Fun, interactive and suitable for all ages, it's a unique way to experience a beloved part of Chinese cultural heritage.
10.30am – 4pm
Chinese Calligraphy
Discover the art of Chinese calligraphy, one of China's most treasured cultural traditions. Learn basic brush techniques and create your own Chinese characters while exploring the beauty, meaning and symbolism behind this ancient art form. A relaxing and creative hands-on experience for beginners and cultural enthusiasts alike.
10.30am – 4pm
Mooncake Making Demonstration
Discover the rich traditions of the Mid-Autumn Festival with a traditional mooncake-making demonstration. Watch as these iconic pastries are shaped and decorated, and learn about their cultural significance as symbols of reunion, gratitude and togetherness. A delicious insight into one of China's most cherished festival traditions
Live Chinese Cultural Performances

Enjoy a captivating program of traditional Chinese music, singing and dance performances. Featuring elegant instruments such as the erhu and pipa, these performances showcase the beauty and richness of Chinese cultural heritage through sound, movement and storytelling.

Performance Times

  • Saturday 26 September: 11am - 11.30am & 2pm - 2.30pm
  • Saturday 26 September: 7pm - 8.30pm
  • Sunday 27 September: 11am - 11.30am & 2pm - 2.30pm

Celebrate with a feast at One Dining

Nestled within the iconic Chinese Garden of Friendship, One Dining reimagines Chinese culinary traditions in a serene garden setting. Treat yourself to yum cha, indulge in a set menu feast or get fancy with their high tea option.