Over the moon with festival’s return

The event promises to deliver a vibrant evening of celebration featuring music, dance, food, art and entertainment, reflecting the rich cultural diversity of the community.
Council’s General Manager Peter Fitzgerald welcomed the $150,000 investment made by the NSW Government’s Open Streets Program to support this important cultural event for the community.
“Council is proud to host local events that offer new experiences through the sharing of culture. This event is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the community, experience new tastes and enjoy an evening of entertainment for all ages,” he said.
Minister for Roads, Arts, Music and the Night-Time Economy, Jobs and Tourism John Graham said the State Government was excited to support the Moon Festival.
“Too often our main streets are something we drive through, rather than drive to. Our streets are a critical part of our public and social infrastructure. Great streets make great towns and centres and reflect the local community and culture,” he said.
“The Open Streets program is about temporarily transforming our main streets into vibrant and welcoming public event spaces.”
The festival will include live entertainment, music and dance from Shiho Sparkle Hooper and Qing Fong Lion Dance Team. The Eat and Drink precinct on Joseph Street will showcase some of the best Korean food in Western Sydney, along with a variety of culturally diverse cuisines.
There will also be an Artisan Market, featuring handmade items such as crochet creations, jewellery, toys and more.
The Outdoor Cinema is also returning with screenings Bao (Oscar winning Best Animated Short Film), Over the Moon, and the classic film The Karate Kid.
The festival will also offer engaging arts activities, including public art installations, art workshops, and a pop-up Lidcombe library, where children can participate in storytime and craft.
Also known as the Moon Cake Festival and traditionally as the Mid-Autumn Festival, the Moon Festival is a harvest celebration that takes place on the 15th day of the eighth month of the Lunar Calendar.
Celebrated in China, Vietnam, Taiwan, and other East and Southeast Asian countries, the Moon Festival dates back to the Zhou Dynasty where people would pay homage to the moon and participate in many traditions including eating moon cakes, reuniting with family, giving thanks and making and carrying commemorative lanterns.
For more information or to view the full program visit cumberland.nsw.gov.au/moon-festival.