Origin & History

Steeped in history, the Mid-Autumn Festival traces its origins back to the Song dynasty in China. The festival is observed on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, when the moon is fullest in the lunar cycle.

Rooted in ancient tradition, the Mid-Autumn Festival is woven with myth and gratitude to the deities for a bountiful post-autumn harvest. It is most commonly associated with the legend of Chang Er, a lady who was granted immortality and transformed into the moon goddess after she drank an elixir. While its origins are ancient, the Mid-Autumn Festival has evolved into a celebration of harmony. Today, friends and families gather under the full moon and indulge in delectable mooncakes that symbolise unity and reunion.

Three baked mooncakes with traditional Chinese tea

Mid-Autumn Festival Traditions in Singapore

Family Dinner and Mooncake Appreciation

The Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for lively celebrations, family reunions, and the spirit of togetherness. In anticipation of the festival, families typically make plans for a family reunion dinner and reserve their mooncakes in advance.

 

Mid-Autumn Festival Activities

During the Mid-Autumn Festival in Singapore, the streets come alive at night with the iridescent glow of lanterns and lively chatter over Chinese tea and mooncakes.

Beyond the traditional festive activities of lantern riddles and calligraphy writing, locals also participate in moon gazing, searching for the ideal location under the night sky to admire the moon's radiance. In the spirit of Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations, the cityscape of Singapore transforms into a breathtaking canvas of lights and colours. Iconic locations like Chinatown and Gardens by the Bay shine with captivating displays, creating a perfect backdrop for families and friends to revel in the spirit of unity.

Lantern light-up for 2024 Mid-Autumn Festival in Singapore

Getting Your Mooncakes in Singapore

Mooncakes are a necessity for every Mid-Autumn Festival celebration in Singapore. Whether you fancy a classic mooncake filled with delectable lotus paste or contemporary creations with unique flavours and culinary finesse, the kaleidoscope of mooncakes available at Marina Bay Sands will have you spoilt for choice.

Marina Bay Sands

Indulge in the timeless tradition of Mid-Autumn Festival with an exquisite collection of mooncakes at Marina Bay Sands. Experience the classic allure of baked mooncakes, featuring a harmonious blend of red bean paste and the aromatic essence of 20-year dried tangerine peel. For a contemporary twist, savour a range of snow skin mooncakes where the rich, creamy Mao Shan Wang durian filling melts in your mouth with a silky mouthfeel.

Assortment of mooncakesfrom Marina Bay Sands for2024 Mid-Autumn Festival

Mott 32 Singapore

Unveil a celestial symphony of flavours with an exclusive mooncake collection from Mott 32. Inspired by bold flavours reminiscent of Mott 32’s iconic dishes, elevate your Mid-Autumn celebrations with this limited-edition treat that is a masterpiece of taste and artistry.

 

Mott 32 Singapore's mooncakes for 2024 Mid-Autumn Festival

Mid-Autumn Dining at Marina Bay Sands

Having a traditional Chinese dinner with family and savouring popular autumnal dishes is a core part of the celebration. Embrace the rich flavours of the season for an unforgettable Mid-Autumn celebration with delectable favourites such as Peking duck and dim sum at the best Chinese restaurants. From classic dishes to innovative creations, menus for the Mid-Autumn Festival are the pinnacle of culinary creativity.

Top view of famous Chinese food and dim sum for 2024 Mid-Autumn Festival