China-South Africa cultural festival celebrates shared heritage
The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is one of China's most important traditional celebrations. It symbolises family reunion, gratitude and prosperity and is traditionally observed by admiring the full moon and sharing mooncakes with family and friends.
The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in South Africa is hosting the first-ever China-South Africa Mid-Autumn Cultural Exchange Festival in Pretoria this weekend, bringing together the cultures, traditions and innovations of both countries.
The free public event, taking place at MM Central Square, 173 Amarand Avenue, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria, on Saturday, 26 September, from 10:00 to 19:00, and Sunday, 27 September, from 10:00 to 17:00. The official opening ceremony and cultural performances dazzled attendees on Saturday afternoon.
According to the organisers, the festival aims to strengthen cultural ties between South Africa and China while giving visitors an opportunity to experience the richness of both nations’ heritage.
Chinese Ambassador to South Africa, Wu Peng, described the event as a landmark occasion.
“A first-of-its-kind festival featuring joint performances, South African and Chinese intangible heritage, innovations and cuisine. The Moon Festival is a shared heritage for all humanity!” said Ambassador Wu Peng.
Visitors can expect a wide variety of cultural experiences, including African and Chinese traditional performances, exhibitions showcasing intangible cultural heritage, Chinese cuisine, and displays highlighting China’s intelligent manufacturing and technological innovation.
The event will also feature cultural exhibitions celebrating the traditions of both countries, creating opportunities for people from different backgrounds to learn from one another through music, dance, food and art.
The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is one of China’s most important traditional celebrations. It symbolises family reunion, gratitude and prosperity and is traditionally observed by admiring the full moon and sharing mooncakes with family and friends.
Organisers say the cultural exchange festival is intended to promote friendship and people-to-people relations between South Africa and China while celebrating the diversity that both nations bring to the global community.
The event is free to attend and open to members of the public. It is co-organised by Huaxing Art Group Johannesburg, Time Square Pretoria and the China-South Africa Youth Federation, with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in South Africa serving as the host and receiving special acknowledgement from the organisers.
