Celebrating Culture and Tradition
The city of Portland came alive on September 30, 2023, as the annual Portland Mid-Autumn Moon Festival took place at the Shun Fat Supermarket. This vibrant event has rapidly grown to become the largest Asian, Asian-American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) gathering in the city, attracting over 10,000 attendees. With more than 65 vendors, cultural performances, and activities for all ages, the festival provided a unique opportunity to celebrate and embrace the rich cultural heritage of the AANHPI community.
Vendors Galore: A Feast for the Senses
Over 65 locally owned vendors proudly showcased their unique products and services, attracting droves of visitors eager to explore the variety on offer. From delicious treats to artistic creations, the festival truly had something for everyone. Vendors such as Musashi’s, Yoonique Pho and Cookies & Goodies delighted taste buds with their culinary creations, while Saga and Art by Jenn showcased stunning artwork that captured the essence of AANHPI culture. Buon Ceramics, Hey Hey Ceramics, and 100Chopsticks & Dokibunny displayed handmade art that were both beautiful and functional, exemplifying the artistic talents within the community.
The demand was so high that many vendors sold out of their goods and offerings, a testament to both their quality and the overwhelming response from festival-goers. This not only highlighted the success of the event but also demonstrated the strong support for local AANHPI businesses in the Portland community.
Mesmerizing Performances: A Showcase of Talent
Amidst the bustling marketplace, the Portland Mid-Autumn Moon Festival became a stage for a series of captivating performances that showcased the rich artistic traditions of the AANHPI community.
The White Lotus Lion Dance team kicked off the festivities with their exhilarating lion dance, capturing the attention of the crowd and infusing the atmosphere with energy and excitement. The Portland Art and Culture Center dazzled the audience with their graceful traditional Chinese dance performances, while Portland Taiko reverberated through the air with the powerful beats of Japanese drumming. Wushu Live School demonstrated impressive athleticism and precision in their wushu performances, leaving spectators in awe of their skills. The Dinh Family mesmerized with their traditional songs and instruments, providing a glimpse into the soul-stirring melodies that are deeply rooted in their cultural heritage. Local DJ Dom ensured that the festival's rhythmic pulse never faltered, infusing the air with an eclectic mix of tunes that kept attendees moving throughout the day.
Activities for All: Creating Lasting Memories
Beyond the delectable treats and mesmerizing performances, the Portland Mid-Autumn Moon Festival ensured that there were activities for everyone to enjoy, including the little ones. Families flocked to the Funtastic Arcade, where children were delighted with games and prize-winning opportunities. Airbrush tattoos and face-painting stations added a touch of whimsy to the day, while cultural workshops offered an educational and hands-on experience for attendees to learn about various AANHPI traditions.
A Resounding Success: The Portland Mid-Autumn Moon Festival
The Portland Mid-Autumn Moon Festival exceeded all expectations, leaving a lasting impression on both visitors and participants. With majority of attendees expressing their satisfaction and a desire to return next year, it's clear that this celebration of AANHPI culture has firmly established itself as a key event for the community and for the city of Portland.
Magic filled the air as the festival brought together communities, celebrated diverse cultures, and supported local AANHPI businesses. The festival allowed Portlanders to appreciate the talents, flavors, and traditions of the AANHPI community while fostering a sense of unity and cross-cultural understanding.
As the sun set on that September day, the Portland Mid-Autumn Moon Festival left behind unforgettable memories and a promise of even greater things to come. So mark your calendars, because next year's festival promises to be an even more fantastic celebration of the AANHPI community in all its vibrant glory.
