The amber glow of lanterns, the sweet aroma of mooncakes… this years Mid-Autumn Festivalone of the most cherished festivals in the Chinese mainlandspilled onto the streets of London.
CGTN stringers set out with boxes of mooncakes in flavors from classic lotus-seed paste to trendy salted-egg yolk chocolate. On a crisp evening in Soho, dozens of curious locals gathered, eager to sample this centuries-old treat and share their thoughts on camera.
"I guess what we do similarly is Christmas," said Harry Ingram, a young British resident. "That's like the big one that most people celebrate. So we gather around, we eat nice food."
It wasnt just Harry. Many participants admitted they were trying a mooncake for the first time. While some praised the delicate sweetness and chewy crust, others found the rich fillings surprisingly indulgent.
Beyond the taste test, the street interviews revealed a deeper connection: the idea of reunion under the full moon. For the Chinese mainland festival, families across Asia gather to admire the moon, but here in Britain, the sentiment resonated with memories of holiday dinners and community gatherings.
These cultural conversations highlight how festivals can bridge borders. As moonlight bathed the city, strangers became friends over shared plates and storiesproof that ancient traditions find new life far from home.
Whether youre a global citizen chasing new experiences or a traveler seeking authentic moments, Britains Mid-Autumn celebration offered a taste of traditionand a reminder that good food and fellowship are truly universal.
Reference(s):
We Talk: Experience the charm of the Mid-Autumn Festival in Britain
cgtn.com