Enjoy the Chinese Moon Festival!

It occurs in the middle of September at about the mid equinox and is held when the moon is full.

It signifies the end of the summer harvest and celebrates all the food that has been collected.

Eating Moon Cake is a very popular activity during this time.

The Moon Cake is a Chinese pastry cake that is quite heavy and dense to what we are used to. Families and friends get together to eat moon cake. It is very significant to receive a mooncake and is treasured by the recipient.

A Chinese friend of mine described the making of moon cake as follows: "There are many different types of mooncakes. Generally, they are made of flour, water, oil and sugar with other ingredients added. A machine is used to add stuffing and shape it in the way desired. It is then toasted for several minutes. It is allowed to cool and stand for about three days before being eaten."

You will see many Moon Cakes for sale in the shops. Also, you may given one by friends or colleagues if you are working there such as at a school.

It is also a time for family reunions. Families come together to celebrate and eat Moon Cake, much the same as we do in the West at Christmas and Easter time.

Currently it is not a public holiday but moves are afoot to make it a public holiday.

Most Westerners remember the Chinese New Year. Remember to wish your Chinese friends a Happy Moon Festival and give them a moon cake.

They will be very gratified by your thoughtfulness.