On September 19th and 20th, the annual “New Century Mid-Autumn Food and Cultural Fair” was held in the lively town of Lu Garden in Orange County, New York. Tens of thousands of people from New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and other states drove here to enjoy the festivities. While tasting delicious food and enjoying cultural performances, they experienced the profound spiritual essence of Chinese and Asian traditional culture. Local elected officials and dignitaries expressed their gratitude to the organizers and the Chinese community for their contributions.
As in previous years, the fair attracted hundreds of food, crafts, and cultural booths from across three states. There were captivating dances, bands, singing, and costume performances that kept the audience engaged and even dancing along with the performers.
Karen Matthews, a female doctor from the town of Neversink in Sullivan County, drove an hour from Grahamsville to attend the fair for the second time. She expressed her love for the cultural atmosphere of the event and the beauty of Chinese culture, emphasizing its profound spiritual depth and the serenity it brings through practices like meditation and Tai Chi.
Antonia, an Italian restaurant coordinator from the suburbs of New York City, attended the fair with her family for the third time, appreciating the joyful atmosphere and the opportunity to experience various aspects of Chinese culture. She highlighted the importance of preserving cultural traditions and condemning the eradication attempts by communism.
Jerome Young, a military veteran from Bear Mountain in New York City, attended a Mid-Autumn festival celebration for the first time in New York, fascinated by Chinese culture and the delicious food, especially mooncakes. He praised the beautiful decorations, performances, and the friendly nature of the Asian community.
Bertha Whitehead, a resident who recently moved from New Jersey to upstate New York, eagerly awaited the Mid-Autumn fair, describing the experience as a warm embrace and emphasizing the importance of kindness and cultural exchange among people.
Harlee Fried, a doctor from Washingtonville, attended the fair for the first time, praising the well-organized event, abundant parking, and delicious soup dumplings. She expressed her anticipation for experiencing the Shen Yun performance for the first time.
Tayla Rees, a female singer who performed at the fair for the second time, commended the organizers for their friendliness and uniqueness in showcasing culture. She highlighted the educational aspect of the fair with its museums, artworks, and diverse cultural displays.
The fair was organized by the Hudson Valley Asian American Business Association and New Century, who hosted a VIP reception for local councilors and dignitaries to show their appreciation for the community’s efforts and contributions.
Mayor Joseph DeStefano of Middletown expressed his gratitude for the event and praised the progress seen in the surrounding areas, while State Assemblyman Karl Brabenec commended the organizers and presented them with a recognition letter.
Councilwoman Janet Sutherland of the 18th District of Orange County described the fair as a spectacular event, emphasizing her love for the performing arts and cultural exchange. County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus extended Mid-Autumn greetings via video to the attendees, expressing regret for not being able to join but looking forward to sharing collaborations between Orange County and Taiwan.
Representatives from local businesses, media companies, and cultural institutions attended the reception, expressing gratitude to the government and lawmakers for their support in their entrepreneurial endeavors and development initiatives.