Ghosts give way to Lanterns
As the Month of the Hungry Ghosts departs, the arrival of the Eighth Month
on the Chinese Calendar signals the arrival of the Mid-Autumn Festival and with it the devouring of Mooncakes and multiple festivities including numerous displays of Lanterns.
After a month of burning embers caused by the burning of ‘hell money' which in theory go off to deceased relatives in the after-life to allow them to buy the very latest in home comforts it's a relief to see a clear sky not dotted with burnt embers.
Singapore makes a great deal of fuss of the Mid-Autumn Festival with lantern parades, food specials and various events taking place across the island.
A Mooncake Fair sees 13 participants offering the very best in Mooncake delights. The event runs until September 14 and is happenin at the Ritz-Carlton Millennia Hotel, Goodwood Park Hotel and the Kia Hung Restaurant.
A Lantern-Making workshop using recycled material is on at Century Square (Level 1) - Tampines Central 5 ...nearest MRT Tampines Station.
Chinatown saw a huge street procession last weekend which kicked off the overall celebrations as 700 performers took to the streets.
Japanese acrobats led the acts as 50 glowing lanterns supported 28 dragons along the streets...all culminating in a firework display.
Giant lanterns dot the Singapore River depicting classic Chinese Tales including Journey to the West and the Battle of the Three Kingdoms...all on show until September 14.
Street-wise it's all happening at the Chinatown Festive bazaar along Pagoda, Terengganu and Sago Streets --- nearest MRT Outram Park.
Check out the Esplanade Theatres website (http://www.esplanade.com.sg/) for details on traditional Chinese arts performances---and maybe join the Lantern Walkabout by the Bay on September 14.
Mid-Autumn is a busy time...come and join the fun!