Lions and Dragons and Mooncakes – oh my! Lanterns come to Laneways
Published on 04 October 2017
Following the outstanding success of the first Laneways in June, Rockhampton is set to celebrate one of the most important events in the Chinese calendar at the next event - the Mooncake Festival.
Taking place on Quay Lane near William Street this Friday between 5.30pm and 9.30pm, Lanterns Laneways will feature Dragon and Lion dances, Mooncakes, and – of course – lanterns.
Rockhampton Region Mayor Margaret Strelow said she was looking forward to celebrating the festival with residents and visitors, and especially with the Chinese community.
“After a great first Laneways event back in June, I am so pleased that we are continuing to see such creativity and culture on our streets,” Mayor Strelow said.
“Second only to Chinese New Year, this is a key event in the Chinese calendar, and as we further develop our relationship with China it will be wonderful to celebrate the festival with people from across the Region.
“One of the highlights will be a vibrant, brightly-coloured full size Spring Dragon, which symbolises prosperity and good fortune. The Dragon and Lion dances promise to be a real spectacle and the Mooncakes are well known as a Chinese delicacy.
“The Laneways pop ups are part of Rockhampton Regional Council’s CBD Activation Plan, and is a great example of embracing our laneways as a social and cultural hub,” Mayor Strelow said.
The festival always takes place during a full moon, and commemorates Chang E, who, in order to protect her beloved husband’s elixir, ate it herself and flew to the moon. Family members gather to appreciate the brightness of the full moon, make lanterns, and eat Mooncakes.
Secretary of the Rockhampton Chinese Association Dorothy Khoo said it has been a wonderful experience to partner with Council and bring this event to the Region.
“We have had so many offers from the Chinese community to come on board with the Council and be involved in this fantastic celebration.
“The festival, which is officially known as the Mooncake Festival, is known all around the Chinese diaspora. This week in China it is National Golden Week to mark the occasion.
“We are hoping the dragon will bring much good fortune and prosperity to the region of Rockhampton,” Ms Khoo said.
Visit www.myrockhampton.com.au or find the event on My Rockhampton’s Facebook page for more information.