In San Francisco’s Richmond District, the 9th annual Mid-Autumn Festival will take place on October 4th (Saturday) from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm between 8th and 11th Avenues on Clement Street. The organizers held a press conference on September 29th in the Richmond District to announce the event details and invite residents and visitors to join in the festivities.
This year’s event is co-hosted by District Supervisor Connie Chan, California Assemblymember Catherine Stefani, State Senator Scott Wiener, and several community organizations, continuing a tradition that started in 2017.
Supervisor Connie Chan expressed, “For me and many neighbors in the Richmond District, the Mid-Autumn Festival is our favorite holiday! It’s a time for families and the community to come together, share mooncakes, and celebrate. I hope to see everyone there in person.”
Assemblymember Catherine Stefani stated, “This is an opportunity to unite the community, support small businesses and local artists, and celebrate Chinese cultural traditions. Events like this bring vitality and diversity to our city. I can’t wait to celebrate with everyone.”
Senator Scott Wiener emphasized that the Mid-Autumn Festival in the Richmond District is an important tradition that unites the western community. He specifically mentioned that this year there will be lion dances, mooncakes, and a chance to win Labubu prizes. “My office will also host a talent show with prizes donated by businesses on Clement Street, I hope to see everyone there at that time.”
This year’s Mid-Autumn Festival will feature over eighty booths, including small businesses, artists, community groups, and government agencies. The program will include cultural and talent performances, as well as an interactive segment featuring reptiles to echo the “Year of the Snake” theme.
Sarah Wan, Executive Director of the Community Youth Center, stated that the event not only showcases cultural heritage but also allows residents to connect emotionally through food, shopping, and performances. “This tradition year after year brings our diverse community together.”
Chris Squire, Chairman of the Clement Street Merchants Association, mentioned that the Mid-Autumn Street Fair has become a signature tradition on Clement Street, showcasing the best of Richmond and his personal favorite festival! This year’s fair will have participation from numerous small businesses from all over the city, displaying the rich Asian American cultural heritage and community spirit of the Richmond District.
“I can’t believe this is already the 9th edition, I remember when this event was first held, it has come such a long way!” said Yves Xavier, Community Project Director at the Richmond Neighborhood Center. “We look forward to spending a truly delightful time with friends and over 80 vendors.”
The Richmond District’s Mid-Autumn Festival was founded in 2017 by former State Assemblymember Phil Ting and former City Supervisor Sandra Lee Fewer and has since become an annual tradition in the area.