A family from Taiwan is fully engaging in the Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations in the city of Fuzhou in east China's Fujian Province which is situated opposite the island of Taiwan across the Taiwan Strait, reflecting the cultural and emotional ties connecting both sides of the Taiwan Strait.
Kang Yung-ming, a former rugby coach from Taiwan, and his family members have recently relocated to Fuzhou, seeking new professional opportunities as well as trying to immerse themselves in local cultural life.
"In fact, a key spirit we want to convey through rugby is 'All for one and one for all'，as rugby requires an individual to lead and inspire the entire team to advance forward," Kang said. With this belief as his support, Kang said he is confident that no barrier is insurmountable.
For Kang and his family, this year marks their inaugural Mid-Autumn Festival on the Chinese mainland, which has been enriched by a variety of local events, including galas, cultural performances, and traditional dances.
However, these festivities present a stark contrast to the more informal celebrations they were accustomed to in Taiwan. One of the most noticeable differences is that people in Taiwan typically enjoy barbecue during Mid-Autumn Festival.
"I'm not sure when it started, but it seems like every household now has barbecue. It could be having a barbecue with family at home or attending outdoor barbecue parties," said Wang Yi-wen, Kang Yung-ming's wife.
According to Wang, Fuzhou's festivities offer a more structured and immersive experience, featuring elaborate events and performances that enhance the festive atmosphere.
Driven by a desire for professional development and a deeper cultural engagement, Kang and all his family members have been pleasantly surprised by the warmth of the local community and the opportunity to participate in traditional customs within a new context.
"I believe we share the same roots and celebrate the same Mid-Autumn Festival. Therefore, we should move beyond ideological differences and focus on finding ways to achieve common prosperity together," he concluded.
Taiwan family embraces Mid-Autumn Festival in mainland city, celebrates cultural unity
