Carmel’s Chinese Mooncake Festival Committee invites you to celebrate Sept. 19

Submitted by City of Carmel

The City of Carmel and the Chinese Mooncake Festival Committee invite residents and visitors to celebrate the annual Chinese Mooncake Festival (Mid-Autumn Festival) on Saturday, Sept. 19 at Midtown Plaza.

A cherished tradition symbolizing family, unity and gratitude, this free, family-friendly event offers an evening of rich cultural heritage, live music, traditional dance, seasonal treats, and the new Family Fun Zone.

The Family Fun Zone is a new addition this year that offers hands-on activities, storytelling, cultural experiences, and plenty of opportunities for kids to explore Chinese traditions while having fun. Other features include a photo station, “Make a Mooncake” with kinetic sand, a Year of the Horse scavenger hunt, Legend of the Mooncake story walk, Meet the Lions and a kids Dragon Parade.

The festivities begin with the iconic Dragon Parade at 6 p.m. along Monon Boulevard. Following the parade, stage performances at Midtown Plaza from 6:20 to 8:30 p.m. will showcase a range of cultural arts, starting with a Dragon Dance accompanied by solo drumming and traditional group dances.

Other performances and activities include: a traditional Chinese costume show, dragon and lion play, Kong Fu demonstration, instruments, songs blended with modern American performance art presented by volunteers from Carmel, Indianapolis, Lafayette, and Greenwood.

Click here if you are interested in volunteering at the Mooncake Festival.