On Saturday, September 15, 2024, the Sen Búp Hướng Phật Mid-Autumn Festival took place at Phap Hoa Temple in Surrey, BC, Canada. This community-focused event aimed to bring together Vietnamese families in the area for a day of cultural celebration, spiritual reflection, and community bonding. With over 200 children and their families in attendance, the event was a resounding success, showcasing the rich heritage of Vietnam while creating lasting memories for the younger generation.
The program featured a variety of activities, carefully designed to reflect the spirit of the Mid-Autumn Festival. Children had the opportunity to participate in traditional Vietnamese games that celebrated childhood joys, while cultural performances brought to life Vietnamese folklore, including the story of Uncle Cuội and the Moon. These performances not only entertained but also reinforced the cultural connection to Vietnam for those living far from home.
A key highlight of the event was the distribution of 300 mooncakes and lanterns to the children, symbolic gifts that are central to the Mid-Autumn Festival tradition. The sight of children holding colorful lanterns lit up the temple courtyard, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. In addition, the volunteers and organizers ensured that the event reflected the core values of Buddhism, promoting kindness, community service, and compassion.
The success of the program was made possible by the dedication of over 15 volunteers, who spent weeks preparing the venue, arranging activities, and coordinating with community members. Their commitment to bringing this celebration to life not only helped preserve Vietnamese culture within the community but also provided an enriching platform for young people to engage in meaningful volunteer work in Canada.
The Sen Búp Hướng Phật Mid-Autumn Festival at Phap Hoa Temple has become a valuable tradition for the Vietnamese community in Surrey, fostering unity, cultural pride, and intergenerational connections. It stands as a testament to the power of community, cultural preservation, and spiritual growth.
