Premier David Eby has issued the following statement marking Mid-Autumn Festival and Full Moon Festival:

“Today is the beginning of Mid-Autumn Festival and Full Moon Festival, ancient festivals that have been observed for more than 3,000 years.

“Mid-Autumn and Full Moon Festivals are celebrated by many Asian communities in B.C. and around the world every year on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month.

“This festival marks a time for reunion and family get-togethers, a time for people to share food and happy memories with those they love. In some cultures, brightly coloured lanterns light up the night as celebrants gather to admire the full moon and eat mooncakes or rice cakes with friends and family.

“The arrival of Mid-Autumn and Full Moon Festivals are opportunities to give thanks for the year’s prosperity and happiness, as well as reflect on hopes for the coming seasons.

“This is also a time for all of us in British Columbia to appreciate the cultural diversity that strengthens our province, and is a reminder of the incredible contributions Asian Canadians make to B.C.

“To everyone celebrating tonight: I wish you a happy Mid-Autumn and Full Moon Festival!”