At Kinderland International Preschool in Vietnam, the annual Tet Trung Thu (Mid-Autumn Festival) is more than just a celebration of the harvest moon. It is often known as the “Children’s Festival” because of its emphasis on children’s well-being, joy, and development. Historically, it was seen as a time when parents, busy with the harvest season, could spend quality time with their children, expressing love and care through various festive activities. Over time, it evolved into a celebration focusing on children’s happiness. Today, this tradition remained at the heart of the festival.
Parents and children making mooncake during the celebration in school(Banh Trung Thu)
The afternoon started with a series of games and activities such as strike the cans, magnetic fishing, shake-the-balls-out and mooncakes making. These games encouraged the participation of parents alongside their children and served as a bonding experience for families. They were a joyous blend of teamwork, laughter, and fun.
Children trying to get as many fishes as possible
Parents and children were working as a team to shake out all the balls in their boxes
On the other side of the school, children and parents gathered for the much-anticipated shadow puppet show. This year, the story of Cuoi, a popular folktale associated with Tet Trung Thu, was brought to life in a mesmerizing performance. Cuoi’s story revolves around a poor but kind-hearted boy who discovered a magical banyan tree with healing powers. Despite his selfless efforts to use the tree for good, Cuoi’s adventure took a turn when the banyan tree, uprooted by a mischievous event, flew to the moon—taking Cuoi along with it. Till today, children are told that Cuoi lives on the moon, watching over them during the Mid-Autumn Festival.
The shadow puppet show was not only a visual treat but also a powerful storytelling tool that captured the imagination of both the children and their parents. Using simple yet effective puppets, the teachers narrated the story with lights and shadows, creating an immersive experience that transported everyone into Cuoi’s world. The storytelling was made even more magical by the ambient lighting, casting a soft glow around the room as the puppets danced on the screen.
Teachers dressed in rabbit and Moon Lady as they narrated the story of Cuoi
As the Mid-Autumn Festival came to a close, the parents and children left with hearts full of joy and memories to cherish. The celebration highlighted the importance of cultural traditions, family involvement, and lifelong learning, all of which are central to Kinderland’s philosophy.