Today was a holiday in Hong Kong, the Mid-Autumn Festival. I know I've spoken of it before, but as a refresher, it's one of the most important holidays celebrated by the Chinese. Many traditions take place during the holiday: lighting lanterns, eating mooncakes, burning incense and candles, and Dragon Dances.
Mooncakes.
Little cakes usually filled with lotus seed paste, or egg yolks. It's customary to give them as gifts, but really I think the Chinese are trying to make each other fat, as each one has between 800-1200 calories.
They are super sweet, and not my favorite. This year, MP's firm decided they would give Haagen Daz's a try.
Now, these "mooncakes" were delicious. Actually, they were nothing like a traditional cake at all.
(Except they probably rival the caloric content).
Basically, a Klondike bar. YUM.
Last night, Natasha and I went up to the Peak and then Causeway Bay to check out the festivities. Lots of families were picnicking, walking with their brightly lit lanterns, and just enjoying being together.
Some of the lanterns are actually lit with candles, and their glow is just beautiful because of it!
Causeway Bay was slammed, as everyone was headed toward Victoria Park for the festivities. There were more lanterns, palm readers, jugglers, and a Dragon Dance (that we didn't stay around to watch).
Do you see this dog? In full-on celebration mode.
Yep, he's even wearing shoes.
Quite possibly, the highlight of my night.
Palm Readers.
Our favorite part though was just walking through the park watching the families celebrate together. It was really so neat to see.
I loved this...amongst all the tradition, this little guy was still on his Ipad.
Check out the lifeguard stands. Hilarious!
I hope you enjoyed a glimpse of our night!
xx,
Lauren
1 comment:
Love the pictures of this cultural festival! Don't like the thoughts of eating mooncakes, but I say yes to the Haagen-Daz! Thanks for sharing. Love, Mom
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