When Philip Walker returned to London after four years living in Guangzhou, he brought back more than souvenirs – he carried home the spirit of the Mid-Autumn Festival. This year, the British consultant celebrated by sharing mooncakes and stir-fried crab with his father, while video-calling friends in the Chinese mainland to exchange heartfelt wishes under the 'same moon.'
'The festival taught me that connection transcends borders,' Philip told myglobalnews.net. 'In Guangzhou, neighbors gifted me lotus-paste mooncakes and explained how reunions symbolise harmony. Now I’m building new traditions – my dad can now identify five types of mooncakes!'
His story reflects a growing trend: 78% of young expats surveyed by Global Culture Watch integrate overseas traditions into their lives post-travel. From London’s Chinatown lantern displays to virtual cooking workshops trending on TikTok, the 3,000-year-old festival gains fresh momentum through global citizens.
'Cultural exchange isn’t about perfection,' Philip laughs, recalling his first attempt at making homemade mooncakes. 'It’s about the joy of sharing what unites us – good food, family, and that glowing moon reminding us we’re all rooted in the same sky.'
Reference(s):
'We Talk': UK resident on celebrating Mid-Autumn Festival in London
cgtn.com
