Mark harvest moon on Grand Final eve

BENDIGO Chinese Association will hold a free community event on Grand Final Eve in the Dai Gum San Precinct to celebrate the annual Harvest Moon Festival.

The festival is a traditional celebration observed in various forms across numerous Asian countries, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan, Vietnam, India, Thailand, and China.

It marks the full moon closest to the Autumn equinox (in China) and is seen as a time to give thanks for the harvest, while offering prayers for the prosperity and well-being of loved ones.

Bendigo Chinese Association president Doug Lougoon said after three decades of holding the festival at Dai Gum San, this year is expected to be the biggest and best ever.

“Still being the year of the dragon, Yar Loong and Gwong Loong will both be making an appearance,” he said.

“There’ll also be some special performances by the Bendigo Chinese Association Lion Team and the Hong Hong Kung Fu Club.

“We’ll have some multicultural entertainment throughout the afternoon and early evening too, plus lantern making and face painting for the kids as well.

“It’s a great afternoon out in Bendigo and there’s going to be something for everyone.”

Foodies can also look forward to up-to 15 food trucks serving dinner and, in keeping with Harvest Moon custom, guests will be able to sample Chinese mooncakes.

Harvest Moon Festival 2024 takes place in the Dai Gum San Precinct, adjacent to the Golden Dragon Museum, on Friday 27 September from 3pm to 7pm.