Chinese Moon Festival Brings Tradition to Downtown Redlands

On Thursday Sept. 10, the Inland Chinese Association (ICA) hosted the Chinese Moon Festival, holding over 330 guests at its major annual event in downtown Redlands at Ed Hales Park. The Chinese Moon Festival holiday “is a traditional Chinese Celebration that dates back to the Tang Dynasty. It is celebrated every year on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month in the Chinese calendar when the moon is at its fullest and brightest of the year. Traditionally, it is a family holiday, when families gather to watch the full moon rise and enjoy pastries made specifically for the event called ‘moon cakes,’” according the City of Riverside webpage. The Dinner Show performance at Ed Hales Park included a Lion Dance, a vocal solo of “Blackbird,” Taiwanese Aboriginal Dance, group dances and more. Meals were provided with the option of pork, chicken or vegetarian from Wok In Cafe. Traditional moon cakes were offered as well. Special guests at the event included Redlands City Councilwoman, Pat Gilbeath, Riverside Councilman Paul David, San Bernardino Councilman John Valdivia, San Bernardino County Supervisor Josie Gonzales, Laura Mancha representative for SB County Supervisor Jose Gonzales, Sarah representative for Congressman Pete Aquilar, James Ramos SB third District Supervisor, Eloise Reyes and more. The Inland Chinese Association (ICA) is a non-profit organization that focuses on teaching the Chinese language, preserving Chinese history, promoting local businesses, and facilitating cultural exchange. Lily Sheu, Vice President, said, “We are here to help new people in the community.” They have supported many local events, such as the Lunar Festival, Orange Blossom Parade, and have enriched the International Relations in World Affairs Councils. The festival has brought Chinese culture to the Inland Empire for several years with its 12th annual event coming to Riverside on the Sept. 27.