Autumn Moon Cultural Festival impresses yet again

A large portion of South Brooklyn’s Asian-American community gathered on Sunday, September 8 for the annual Autumn Moon Cultural Festival Celebration, one of the largest celebrations of its kind in Asian culture, and held each year at Leif Ericson Field.

“I was proud to help organize the Moon Festival, an event that is incredibly important to the Chinese community,” said Councilmember Carlos Menchaca. The event, which usually attracts more than 500 spectators, was presented this year by the councilmember as well as the Brooklyn Asian Communities Empowerment (BRACE) and the Metro Community Alliance (MCA).

“This year’s festivities were attended by over 1,500 residents—a true testament to the importance of this event to the Chinese community, and the outreach that took place in Sunset Park,” said Menchaca. “The Moon Festival continues to bring together people from all walks of life, and illuminates the incredible diversity of experiences in our neighborhood.”

Families of all sizes embraced the afternoon affair with children waving both Chinese and American flags and waiting anxiously to jump around in the bouncy house while their parents stopped by sponsor tables for free gifts and information. Others participated in activities such as lantern making and Chinese calligraphy demonstrations as well as sitting front row for Tai Chi and Lion Dance performances – all of which Menchaca called a hit.

“This is a great thing for the Asian-American community,” said local resident Cindy Yu as she waited on line with her children to decorate lanterns. “We look forward to next year.”