A Vibrant Celebration: Recap of the 3rd Annual Portland Mid Autumn Festival
On September 14, 2024, the White Lotus Foundation proudly hosted the 3rd Annual Portland Mid Autumn Festival, an unforgettable cultural celebration at the new Hong Phat Supercenter, Oregon's largest Asian supermarket. Despite the heavy rain that rolled in around 6 PM, our community came out in full force, demonstrating their love for the rich traditions of the Mid Autumn Festival and their unwavering support for local AAPI businesses and creators.
A Celebration of Local AAPI Talent and Entrepreneurship
The festival showcased over 75 vendors, offering everything from artisanal crafts and gourmet food to unique merchandise—all proudly representing local entrepreneurs and small businesses from the AAPI community. Our market atmosphere was lively, with booths bustling with attendees eager to support and discover new products and services.
Cultural Performances and Music
We were thrilled to host over 5 live cultural performances that captivated audiences throughout the day. From traditional lion and dragon dances to musical performances by talented local artists, the event brought to life the heart of AAPI culture and its modern expressions. Each performance celebrated the beauty and diversity of our heritage, creating a vibrant, festive atmosphere.
The festival wasn’t just about shopping and performances; it was also a family-friendly event with games and activities for attendees of all ages. From inflatable obstacle courses for the kids to interactive booths and cultural games, there was something for everyone to enjoy, making it a true celebration for the entire community.
Honoring Culture and Building Community
Even when the rain began to pour at 6 PM, the spirit of the festival didn’t falter. Many attendees stayed, braving the weather to continue celebrating, proving that our community’s dedication to cultural pride and togetherness is stronger than any storm. The evening continued with joy, laughter, and vibrant energy, all in celebration of the Mid Autumn Festival’s deep roots and its significance in uniting people.
The Mid Autumn Festival is about more than just mooncakes and lanterns. It’s about coming together, honoring tradition, and sharing our culture with the broader community. Through this annual event, we aim to create an inclusive space where everyone—regardless of background—can experience the beauty and richness of AAPI culture. The importance of celebrating culture and community cannot be overstated, and as an organization, we are committed to facilitating moments like these, where cultural pride meets community engagement.
Special Thanks to Our Venue and Sponsors
This year’s event was made possible with the generous support of the new Hong Phat Supercenter, which provided the perfect venue for our celebration. We also extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors, Port of Portland and Trimet, for their unwavering support. Their contributions played a pivotal role in making this year’s festival our biggest and most successful yet.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on the success of this year’s festival, we are already looking forward to next year’s celebration. Thank you to everyone who attended, supported, and participated in this event. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected community, one celebration at a time.
