As we approach the Mid-Autumn Festival or the Mooncake Festival on September 21st, we can feel a cosy and colourful vibe on the island.
The 2,000-odd-year festival–that usually falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month–is believed to have originated from the tradition of worshipping the moon during the Song Dynasty.
On this day, friends and family come together for moon-viewing parties, with yummy mooncakes, beautiful lanterns, and autumn fruits like pomelo.
Now, if you haven’t yet made any plans and are looking to celebrate this festival–whether online or offline–we’ve curated a list of the best Mid-Autumn festival activities list for you to check out.
7 Places Where You Try All The Fun Mid-Autumn Festival Activities
Chinatown
Date: September 5 to October 5, 2021
Venue: Online & Chinatown
This year’s light-up takes the theme of “reunion” at Chinatown. It is in tribute to how Singaporeans have stood together to overcome the challenges brought about by the pandemic.
The highlight of this year’s lantern display celebration is a towering 12m-tall centrepiece that depicts the Chinese goddess of the moon, Chang-E.
Keeping in mind the current COVID situation, strict measures have been implemented. The scale of the Mid-Autumn Festival in Chinatown has been reduced.
However, in spite of that the organising committee hopes to continue the celebrations through the dazzling streets and bring a smile across everyone’s face.
Gardens by the Bay
Image courtesy: Gardens by the Bay
Date: September 15 to October 3, 2021
Venue: Gardens by the Bay
This year’s Mid-Autumn Festival will be in line with the theme “Blessings” at Gardens by the Bay. The celebrations will hope to spread joy and bring tidings of good health and better days ahead to visitors through beautiful lantern displays.
The “Sky lanterns” floating up, set against the picturesque mountainous backdrop with plants and animals in the backdrop is something you shouldn’t miss.
If you are there, do look for the “Rabbits Forest” set, featuring the cute rabbit lanterns spreading festive cheer.
Other than the lantern displays, you can also catch the cultural performances on weekends. They will also be live-streamed on Gardens by the Bay’s Facebook page.
Jurong Lake Gardens
Image courtesy: Jurong Lake Gardens
Date: September 17 to October 3, 2021
Venue: Online and Jurong Lake Gardens
You can enjoy the spirit of the festival and have a great time as Jurong Lake Garden presents a series of interactive online and onsite programmes during this time. You will also get to relax and unwind with some soulful music under the Moonlight 2021.
Artistes like Flame of the Forest, the Freshman and Dawn Wong, will be performing an exciting curation of music while you savour the mooncakes and tea from the comfort of your home.
It is just what you need to bring in cheer amid all the uncertainty and negativity, which the pandemic brought along with it.
Singapore Discovery Centre
Date: September 4 to 26th
Venue: Singapore Discovery Centre
Experience the celestial Mid-Autumn month with a lineup of exciting activities for you and your family. Be ready to fly over the moon (quite literally)!
The ‘Moon Mirrors’ installation here, reflects the longing of homecoming and yes, reunion.
You can also make your very own paper rabbit lantern in a kid-friendly craft activity. Don’t miss the easy watercolour painting session where you can learn some innovative techniques and you can create your very own moon portrait as you sit by the lake.
Wan Qing
Date: August 31 to 26th September
Venue: Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall & online
You can put your creativity to the test by making your own lantern using up-cycled materials. Or practice language and problem-solving skills with some super fun riddles. (Don’t worry, as you will get hints all the way).
Finally, you can make your way to the lawn for an awe-inspiring outdoor installation featuring four large lanterns. In case, you are wondering, the displays are inspired by Jade Rabbit from Chinese folklore.
Singapore Zoo
Image courtesy: Rainforest Lumina
Date: September (3 to 12) & (17-19)
Venue: Rainforest Lumina, Singapore Zoo
The rainforest comes to life in a symphony of lights, music and interactive play installations. They will be coupled with photo opportunities for visitors as the lantern glow shines in the area.
Experience the Rainforest Lumina in the all-new light as exciting activities and festive treats have been planned for you.
Pang Sua Pond
Date: September 14 to October 14
Venue: Pang Sua Pond
Don’t miss the Bukit Panjang Town Mid-Autumn Festival Light Up at Pang Sua Pond. You can catch all festival lights that will be displayed there for a month.
Now, that you have all the details, are you excited about celebrating the festival? But before you step out and enjoy all the Mid-Autumn festival activities in Singapore, do not forget to follow all the safety guidelines. Wear your mask, avoid crowds and sanitise your hands always!
ALSO READ:
5 Mid-Autumn Festival DIY Lantern Designs For Kids
16 Places That Offer Yummy Mooncakes For Mid-Autumn Festival Celebrations