Dragons, Mooncakes and Drums... Oh My!

This weekend was a festival celebrating the 15th of August. Yes, I realize that it was October 3rd, but perhaps the reason everything is so backwards here is because they use two calendars! (lunar & regular)

Mid-Autumn Festival was this weekend and I think this is one tradition I am going to bring home with me. Streets were packed with motorbikes, people, dragons and handmade floats which were painstakingly constructed with bamboo and cellophane. American parades have a lot to learn from the Vietnamese; no more boring marching bands, waving Boy Scouts or giant, deadly balloons. Just add a touch of anarchy and a pinch of vodka guzzling fire-breathers and you have yourself an amazing parade. I can certainly attest.

With a dinner of Cha Ram Bap (corn spring rolls in peanut sauce) and a desert of Kem (ice cream) in my belly, some of my students, American friends and I immersed ourselves in the throng of holiday revelers.

It is traditional for the children and adults alike to carry lanterns in this crazy procession. The traditional paper ones have a candle inside, however I opted for the light up
faux-Minney&Mickey which played It's a Small World. Why not right? When in Rome - or Vietnam - buy the chintziest thing possible to blend in.

Enjoy the festival below and here.

P.S. Sorry for the profanity...blame John.