On September 17th, 2024, the Chinese Students and Scholars Association (CSSA) and the Associated Students of Skyline College (ASSC) hosted the Annual Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival at the Intercultural Center in Building 4. This event provided Chinese, Vietnamese, and other students a special opportunity to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging. It also served as a platform for students to share their unique cultural traditions with each other, enriching the diversity of Skyline College.
Traditionally observed on the night of the fullest and brightest moon in the lunar calendar (August 15), the Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for family gatherings, mooncake sharing, and moon appreciation. With deep roots in both Chinese and Vietnamese cultures, this year’s celebration at Skyline College radiated warmth and joy.
The festivities began with a heartfelt welcome from Kelly Li, CSSA Club Advisor and Program Services Coordinator for Study Abroad. Club President Jiaxuan Qiao, Co-Advisor Nancy Lam, and Thanh Nguyen from the International Student Program, led an engaging presentation showcasing the festival’s rich traditions, including highlights on traditional foods like mooncakes and activities such as lantern-making and the fire dragon dance.
Ryan Samn, College Recruiter and passionate supporter of Chinese culture, delivered a compelling speech on the importance of celebrating cultural traditions at Skyline College. His remarks were echoed by a surprise guest, Dr. Newin Orante, Interim President of Skyline College, whose speech elevated the event: “Make it a norm — we should expect the celebration of culture to be inclusive at our institution!”
Participants enjoyed a mooncake tasting, courtesy of Nancy Lam, who brought a delightful selection of traditional mooncakes and exotic fruits. The cultural experience was further enhanced by interactive stations where students crafted paper lanterns and practiced Chinese calligraphy, igniting enthusiasm and deeper understanding of these customs.
A highlight of the event was the Chinese riddle activity, where attendees guessed answers related to Mid-Autumn Festival traditions for prizes. Excitement peaked when one lucky student correctly guessed the number of candies in a jar, winning a grand prize of White Rabbit candies, a popular Chinese treat.
The festival concluded with a traditional Chinese meal featuring fried rice, egg rolls, and chicken skewers, providing a perfect opportunity for attendees to socialize, take photos, and celebrate the success of the event. Special thanks to Alvin Gubatina, Nancy Lam, Mei Lee, Kelly Li, Tim Luong, Thanh Nguyen, JiaXuan Qiao, and Ryan Samn for making the celebration a resounding success and memorable for all involved!
CSSA was thrilled to see a high level of interest from students wanting to join the club and engage further with Chinese culture. Looking ahead, the club is excited to organize more events that promote cultural exchange and community bonding.
For those interested in joining the CSSA, please contact Jiaxuan Qiao/CSSA Club President at qiaoj1@my.smccd.edu or complete the interest form HERE.
Thank you to everyone who made this celebration a success!
Article by JiaXuan Qiao, Kelly Li & Mei Lee
Photos credit: Mabel Lynn