2026 Mercer Island Mid-Autumn Festival Carnival Brings the Community Together

On Sunday, September 20, the Mercer Island Community and Event Center came alive with music, dance, art, food, and community spirit during the 2026 Mercer Island Mid-Autumn Festival Carnival.

Hosted by the Mercer Island Chinese Association in partnership with the City of Mercer Island, the free, family-friendly celebration welcomed community members of all ages to experience the beauty and traditions of the Mid-Autumn Festival—one of the most cherished holidays in Chinese culture.

Throughout the day, guests enjoyed an exciting lineup of performances featuring kung fu, traditional Chinese dance, Peking Opera, music ensembles, and talented student groups. Families also participated in hands-on cultural activities, including Chinese calligraphy, lacquer fan making, paper cutting, lantern making, stone rubbing, and Chinese knot making. Children especially enjoyed the carnival games and face painting, while food trucks and local vendors offered a delicious selection of meals, snacks, and desserts.

The Community Resource Fair brought together local schools, nonprofit organizations, public agencies, and service providers, giving families an opportunity to learn more about the many programs and resources available throughout Mercer Island and the greater Seattle area.

We were honored to welcome several distinguished community leaders to the celebration, including Mercer Island Mayor Dave Rosenbaum, Deputy Mayor Daniel Becker, City Councilmember Julie Hsieh, Washington State Representative Janice Zahn, and King County Executive Girmay Zahilay. In their remarks, they emphasized the importance of the Chinese community and recognized how cultural celebrations like the Mid-Autumn Festival help bring neighbors together, strengthen community connections, and create a deeper appreciation for the diverse cultures that make our region so special.

Their presence was especially meaningful to our community and reflected a shared commitment to ensuring that people from all backgrounds feel seen, welcomed, and celebrated.

The success of this year’s festival was made possible by the tremendous support of the City of Mercer Island, 4Culture, the Mercer Island Community Fund, our generous sponsors and community partners, participating performers and organizations, and the many dedicated volunteers who contributed their time and talents.

Most importantly, we are grateful to every family, neighbor, and community member who joined us. Whether you came to enjoy a performance, make a lantern, try a new food, meet a local organization, or simply spend time with friends and family, your participation made the celebration truly special.

The Mid-Autumn Festival is traditionally a time for reunion, gratitude, and togetherness. Seeing so many people gather under one roof to celebrate culture and community brought that spirit beautifully to life.

Thank you for celebrating with us. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for our Lunar New Year Celebration on Jan. 31st, 2027!