40th Annual Mid-Autumn Festival: Moon Palace
About this Event
Write a wish, light a lantern, share the moon.
Saturday & Sunday, 2pm–9pm, September 26–27, 2026
Step into the Moon Palace and celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival at the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. Enjoy an afternoon and evening of lanterns, traditional performances, hands-on activities, cultural stories, and festive moments for the whole family.
This year’s celebration is extra special: 2026 marks the Garden’s 40th anniversary, and this is our 40th annual Mid-Autumn Moon Festival. Our 40th anniversary celebrations began on April 24, our official anniversary, and have continued throughout the year. We invite you to join us for another milestone moment as we bring one of the Garden’s longest-running traditions to life.
Make a Wish, Light a Lantern
Write a wish, hope, or special message and place your lantern by the Garden’s Jade Pond. As evening falls, watch the lanterns glow and their reflections dance across the water.
Follow the Moon’s Stories
Explore the Garden and look for Mid-Autumn riddles hidden throughout the space. Along the way, discover stories, symbols, and traditions connected to one of China’s most beloved festivals.
A Taste of the Moon
Learn more about the tradition behind the iconic mooncake through a live mooncake-making demonstration and discover how this beloved treat became part of Mid-Autumn celebrations.
Create Your Own Festival Keepsake
Get creative with hands-on crafts inspired by the moon, the Jade Rabbit, and other Mid-Autumn traditions. Make something of your own to take home and remember the festival.
Festival Fun for Everyone
There will be plenty to keep younger visitors busy, from creative activities to face painting. As the afternoon turns to evening, glowing designs will add a little extra magic to the festivities.
Experience the Lion Dance
Hear the drums and watch the lions make their way through the Garden in a lively celebration of good fortune, joy, and community.
More Cultural Experiences
Enjoy traditional arts, music, and cultural performances throughout the weekend, presented in the Garden’s courtyards and pavilions.
Celebrate Under the Full Moon
Stay into the evening as the Garden takes on a new glow. Lanterns illuminate the Jade Pond, music fills the courtyards, and the Garden becomes a special place to gather with family and friends.
Join us for the 40th annual Mid-Autumn Moon Festival and celebrate this beloved tradition during a very special year for the Garden.
Early Bird Promotion: The first 100 ticket orders placed will receive a complimentary traditional bamboo hand fan to commemorate the evening. Limited to one fan per order, while supplies last.
Annual Passholders are eligible for an additional 10% admission to this event. To redeem, please get in touch with [email protected]. The time and date of your message will also be taken in to account for Early Bird promotion eligibility.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
CAD 14.82 to CAD 46.13
