Nearly 7,500 families attended the Annual Moon Festival at Mile Square Park

In a tradition dating back thousands of years, Orange County celebrated the Annual Moon Festival at Mile Square Park last Sunday, September 19, with live entertainment and arts for children and families.

“Traditionally, the Mid-Autumn Festival is a time to celebrate with family and for thanksgiving,” said Supervisor Andrew Do. “It was heartfelt to see families gathering in an outdoor setting once again.”

The Moon Festival, also known as Mid-Autumn Festival or Tết Trung Thu in Vietnamese, was sponsored by Orange County Chairman Andrew Do, who represents Little Saigon, the largest population of Vietnamese outside of Vietnam.

The event featured face painting by Beauty Glam Academy, balloon animals by Happiness is a Balloon, food by the Hawaiian Dancing Grill BBQ and Kettle Corn King, live entertainment by various singers and groups, and a parade of colorful lanterns for children in attendance. The free event was hosted in collaboration with CalOptima and OC Parks.

“Traditions give us a sense of identity and belonging,” said Supervisor Do, whose family fled Vietnam during the Fall of Saigon.

“As a young refugee, I remember the first time I attended a Vietnamese Tet Festival in the U.S. with my family,” Supervisor Do added. “That brought me comfort and security, at a time of profound change. As Supervisor for the most diverse district in Orange County, I celebrate all cultures and traditions in our diverse district.”