The Autumn Moon Festival at the College of Staten Island is truly something special, giving faculty and students an opportunity to fully participate in one of the most significant Chinese cultural festivities. This event, which falls on the 15th of the eighth lunar month, is focused on the moon and its symbolic meanings of completeness, reunion, and spiritual happiness. Traditionally, mooncakes are gifted and shared during this holiday, representing the full moon’s roundness, which in turn conveys the idea of completeness and togetherness. Interestingly, for this celebration on campus, Oreo cookies were used in place of mooncakes—an adaptation due to the fact that many mooncakes contain peanut oil. This clever substitute reflects the festival’s heart, bringing people together through shared food, even if the specifics have been adjusted to suit the diverse crowd.

What makes this festival so important to the CSI community is how it encourages cultural exchange and collaboration. Originating from China, the Autumn Moon Festival allows students and faculty to not only celebrate a holiday but to learn more about its deeper meanings and traditions. The event offered a variety of engaging activities—from games and riddles to unravel, to origami-making stations and even a ChapStick challenge, where winners could earn fun prizes. The festive decorations created a lively atmosphere, and the refreshments were the perfect touch to make everyone feel welcome. Walking into the event, it was impossible not to feel a sense of curiosity about the traditions and history behind it all. Plus, every attendee got to leave with a Chinese Zodiac chart, a lovely keepsake that ties the experience to Chinese culture and provides a glimpse into its astrological beliefs.

The Autumn Moon Festival aims to foster a stronger feeling of campus community in addition to promoting cultural appreciation. Students from various origins gathered to celebrate and learn from one another, igniting interest in one another’s cultures and creating bonds. It’s simple to understand how occasions such as these may influence the College’s continued commitment to diversity and inclusion. The event served as a poignant reminder that intercultural dialogue and teamwork may enhance the educational experience and that learning more about one another’s customs can foster a greater sense of understanding. Behind the scenes, the success of the festival wouldn’t have been possible without the efforts of some incredible students. Ruson Begum, the President of the AAPI Club and a senior double majoring in Psychology and Economics, along with Ayela Janjus, the Club’s Secretary and a junior majoring in Criminology, helped organize the event. Their leadership and dedication made the festival not only fun but also an educational experience for everyone who attended.

Additionally, Winnie Brophy, the Director of Special Programs and Initiatives at the Center for Global Engagement, played a crucial role in putting the event together, ensuring its seamless execution. Thanks to them and the rest of the AAPI Club, the Autumn Moon Festival offered the College community a meaningful opportunity to celebrate, connect, and explore the richness of Chinese culture. Hope to see you there next year! xiè xiè yuè dú

By Nathalia Lampkin