Red lanterns strung along streets, delicious traditional foods and noisy family gatherings are all part of Moon Festival celebrations observed across a host of Asian countries.

The Moon Festival falls on Thursday 1 October celebrating the Harvest Moon, which is at the centre of celebrations.

It’s a time for people to return to their hometowns, see extended family members from grandparents to newborns, play games and eat a traditional home cooked meal.

Mayor Khal Asfour wished everyone who calls Canterbury-Bankstown their hometown, a happy day with family and loved ones.

“As one of the most important holidays on the Lunar calendar, we wish you a happy and safe celebration of the Moon Festival with your families,” Mayor Asfour said.

“I know this is usually a popular time for families to travel overseas and see their extended family and not being able to is difficult.

Mayor Asfour said whether you’re eating a traditional sweet mooncake, it was another chance for everyone to celebrate our cultural diversity.

“It’s another reminder that our city is a diverse one, and that’s what makes it a great place to live.”

Although the Harvest Moon usually rises in September, this year it will peak on Friday 2 October.

Family gatherings and sharing traditional foods are an important part of festivities including mooncakes, cassia wine or rice cakes, depending on your background.

The Moon Festival is known by many names and is one of the biggest holidays celebrated in China, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, and Vietnam.

“Like many holidays, the Moon Festival brings families together and in Canterbury-Bankstown we want to acknowledge this special time,” he said.

The City of Canterbury Bankstown wishes everyone celebrating the Moon Festival or Mid-Autumn Festival, a safe and happy holiday.