Pleasanton Celebrates Mid‑Autumn Moon Festival at Pacific Pearl

On Saturday, between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., the Pacific Pearl shopping center transforms into a bustling celebration of the Mid‑Autumn Moon Festival – a cherished Chinese holiday that falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, when the moon is at its fullest and brightest.

Families, friends and curious passers‑by will gather near the 85°C Bakery Café at 2725 Stoneridge Drive to enjoy a lively lineup of activities. A colorful lion dance will stomp through the parking lot, while a martial‑arts demonstration showcases skill and tradition. Little ones can get their faces painted, and balloon artists will twist whimsical shapes for giggles all around.

Of course, no Mid‑Autumn celebration is complete without mooncakes and glowing paper lanterns. Attendees are encouraged to share a slice of the sweet pastries, look up at the evening sky, and perhaps make a wish on a lantern. The event is completely free, thanks to the generous support of The Dorris‑Eaton School, the local business sponsor.

If you can’t make it to Pleasanton, there are other Bay Area festivities to explore. San Francisco’s Chinatown Autumn Moon Festival runs Sept. 19‑20 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Oakland’s Little Saigon Mid‑Autumn Festival takes place on Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. at Clinton Park.

So whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, a fun family outing, or simply a chance to admire the full moon with a slice of mooncake, Pacific Pearl has you covered. Grab a friend, bring the kids, and join the community for an afternoon of lantern light and joyful tradition.