Overview
The Bendigo Chinese Association is hosting their Annual Harvest Moon Festival at the Dai Gum San Chinese Precinct from 12pm on the Grand Final Public Holiday, Friday 25 September 2026. This is a free community event.
Enjoy a variety of cuisines from local food trucks available from 12pm - 8pm and be entertained by performances of Lion Dance supported by other cultural community groups from 2pm - 6pm.
There will also be the opportunity to purchase a variety of mooncakes, a traditional dessert eaten during the festival.
For many cultures throughout the world, the Harvest Moon Festival celebrates three fundamental concepts that are closely tied to one another:
• The gathering or reunion of family and friends coming together.
• The giving of thanks for a plentiful harvest and harmonious relationships.
• The hope for longevity and prosperity is a good future.
The Harvest Moon Festival is a significant celebration for the Chinese people, no matter where they live. In China, the festival marks the return of people to their homes to be with family and friends after the end of the harvest season.
In Australia, the festival falls during early spring, so for the Chinese of Bendigo and Australia, it holds a special meaning, marking the end of winter.
