The Chinese Mid-Autumn Moon Festival, a very important festival for the Chinese people, falls on the 15th day of the 8th month in the Lunar Calendar. This is when the moon is believed to be in its fullest and roundest. This year, it falls on October 3, 2009.

In Chinese culture, the full moon is a symbol of peace and prosperity for the whole family. Its roundness symbolizes wholeness and togetherness. The number 8 is a symbol of wealth and prosperity.

This year, the Davao City Chinatown Development Council is holding the very first Chinese Mid-Autumn Moon Festival.

On the eve of the moon festival, October 2, 6 PM, Friday, the festivities will begin simultaneously at the Unity and Friendship archways along R. Magsaysay Avenue and Peace Archway along Sta. Avenue, all located within Davao City’s Chinatown.

Starting on Friday, the Night Market will be opened to the public at the Unity Archway Traditional festival activities will be held at the Peace Archway where a Lantern Lighting and Making contest, and the city and barangay Mooncake Dice Game will be played and presented. while the Food and Entertainment Fiesta along Chavez Street will also commence.

On the night of the festival, October 3, Saturday, a Moon Gazing and a Musical Showdown will be participated in by various Chinese schools in the city, and will be held at the Peace Archway. The awarding of the winners will also be held on the same night.

The festivities will continue on to October 4, Sunday, with the Food and Entertainment Fiesta.

For more information, contact the City Tourism Office at 222-1956 to 57.