Celebrate an ongoing tradition with the Mid-Autumn Festival in Richmond, BC
Believe it or not, the middle of autumn is fast approaching. Or at least it is according to the lunar calendar.
Whether you celebrate the day or are curious about what the festivities entail, you’ll definitely want to check out the Mid-Autumn Festival taking place at Lansdowne Centre in Richmond, BC.
The free, family-friendly event features all sorts of fun and breathtaking activities. We’re talking photo opportunities on a bridge over an enchanting lotus pond, a mysterious lantern tunnel with riddles to solve, a lacquer fan-making workshop, a traditional Chinese costume (Hanfu) experience, a local artisan market, a children’s arts and crafts area, and tons of prizes.
Behind the festival
There’s some fascinating folklore behind the Mid-Autumn Festival, and here’s the gist of it: Once upon a time, in Ancient China, a mighty and ruthless king named Hou Yi ruled. He came across a mystical elixir that promised immortality, but his wife, Chang’e, couldn’t bear to see her people endlessly suffer under her husband’s brutal governance.
Chang’e took the elixir herself and ascended to the Moon Palace. Her sacrifice is noticed by a duo of immortal rabbits, who wish to send her a companion. They send their youngest daughter, named Little Jade Rabbit, to keep Chang’e company for eternity.
Not so different
While the festivities take place on October 4 and 5, the actual Mid-Autumn Festival falls on October 6, which is exactly one week before Thanksgiving. It’s quite fitting, as the two celebrations carry similar importance to their respective cultures and calendars.
Both celebrate the bountifulness of harvest time, reunite family and friends, and feature delectable feasts. However, the Mid-Autumn Festival prefers chicken and mooncakes, while Thanksgiving opts for turkey and pumpkin pie.
A good cause
In the spirit of thankfulness, the Mid-Autumn Festival is also giving back to the community. While the festival is free to attend, certain elements have a fee associated, and donations are encouraged.
All funds raised will be donated to the VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation to help transform specialized adult healthcare and research in the province.
Everyone is welcome to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival happening at the Lansdowne Centre, so be sure to check it out!
Lansdowne Mid-Autumn Festival Celebration
When: Saturday, Oct. 4 and Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025
Time:
- Saturday, Oct. 4 – Public event from noon to 4 p.m., and artisan market from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Sunday, Oct. 5 – Artisan market from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Centre Court, Lansdowne Centre – 5300 No. 3 Rd., Richmond
Cost: Free
Branded Content