The Mid-Autumn Festival, or the Mooncake Festival, is celebrated in Asian culture on the 15th day of the 8th month of the Chinese lunisolar calendar. Traditionally, the festival celebrates the fundamental concept of gathering where family and friends come together and give thanks for the harvest or harmonious unions.
Chung Wah Community Care (Chung Wah CC) continues to uphold these Chinese traditions by organising Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations at both the Balcatta and Willetton Community Hubs, offering a festive and joyous occasion for our elderly community members. In addition to the cultural performances, mooncakes were gifted to the seniors, bringing an added layer of festive spirit and a touch of home. On the eve of the Mid-Autumn Festival, Wang Fengzhong, the Acting Consul General of the People's Republic of China in Perth, visited the seniors at the Balcatta Community Hub, presenting mooncakes and sincere wishes for the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Mooncakes, alternatively known as moon pastries or reunion cakes, are a staple in Chinese tradition, especially during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Their origin, dating back to the Tang Dynasty, was as offerings to the moon, praying for its blessings, and by the Song Dynasty, they had morphed into a beloved treat amongst the populace, available in various flavours. The crust of mooncakes comes in two primary types: flaky and non-flaky. The former, crafted from shortcrust and flour, showcases a crisp exterior enveloping a sweet filling. At the same time, the latter provides a somewhat softer exterior due to its water-oil dough composition.
With a wide array of fillings like lotus seed paste, mixed nuts, bean paste, egg yolk, ham, and fresh meat, mooncakes are more than a delightful food item – they bear a profound cultural significance. Their round shape symbolises unity and fulfilment, and eating mooncakes during the festival symbolises familial unity and happiness. The mooncakes also embody sentiments of missing family and friends, allowing people to extend their wishes to those far away on the moonlit night. Today, mooncakes are a crucial component of Chinese traditional culture and a favoured festive treat. During each Mid-Autumn Festival, mooncakes are purchased and shared among friends and family as they come together to celebrate the occasion.
Chung Wah has been servicing the WA community since 1909, dedicated to improving the quality of life of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Moreover, Chung Wah CC has over 35 years of professional care experience helping seniors and people with disability improve their well-being and better integrate into the community. In 2023, we're promoting our theme, "Embrace, Elevate & Flourish", and build a better community for all.
