Chinese Mooncake Festival in Carmel, Indiana

Immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of China at the Chinese Mooncake Festival on Saturday, September 20. Enjoy a vibrant celebration of Chinese culture and traditions. This event features a variety of activities including traditional Chinese performances, craft stations and interactive storytelling sessions. Attendees can enjoy tasting mooncakes, a classic treat of the festival and learn about their cultural significance. The festival is designed to be family-friendly, offering engaging activities for children and adults alike. It’s an opportunity to experience Chinese heritage through arts, music and food, all in a welcoming community setting.

2025 Festival Information

Location

1 Civic Sq., Carmel

Date

Saturday, September 20, 2025
Free admission

What To Expect

The festival offers a chance to experience Chinese heritage through art, music, performances, and regional cuisine. Admission is free, and parking is available at several Midtown garages at no cost. 

Festival Origins

Mooncakes hold deep cultural meaning in Chinese tradition. Their round shape represents the full moon and symbolizes unity and togetherness. They’re typically shared or gifted during the Mid-Autumn Festival, one of the most important holidays in Chinese culture, as a gesture of appreciation.

The Carmel Chinese Mooncake Festival began just 12 years ago with around 300 attendees. Today, it draws close to 3,000 community members each year. In 2023, then-Mayor Jim Brainard issued a proclamation during the event, officially recognizing September 30 as Carmel Chinese American Community Appreciation Day.

Dragon Parade, Performances & Family Activities

The highlight of the Chinese Mooncake Festival is the dragon parade, along with performances by local groups like the Indianapolis Chinese Performing Arts, Indianapolis Chinese Community Center and the Indiana Association of Chinese Americans. Guests can enjoy traditional Chinese music and dance, sample mooncakes—the festival’s signature treat—and take part in craft stations and interactive storytelling. It’s a family-friendly event with something engaging for all ages!

Things to Do Nearby

Looking for other things to do during your visit? Take a walk along the scenic Monon Trail and wander through the many stops and shops in the Carmel Arts & Design District, Midtown or City Center. See the stunning Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for Performing Arts or shop around Clay Terrace.

Places to Eat

If you're still hungry, try breakfast or brunch at Rosie's Place or burgers and milkshakes at Bub's Burgers & Ice Cream. Take in the view from 3UP or enjoy a delectable dessert at The Cake Bake Shop. Stop for a drink at Wine & Rind or Sun King Carmel and enjoy the green spaces.

Where to Stay

When your ready to rest your head, there are several conveniently located hotels. Hotel Carmichael at City Center, and  Renaissance Indianapolis North Hotel or Drury Plaza Hotel Indianapolis on Meridian Street.

When you're ready to rest your head, there are several conveniently located hotels. Find a place to stay in Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville or Westfield. Simply enter your travel dates and preferences to discover the best accommodations that suit your needs.

For more information on things to do in Hamilton County, check out our calendar. Be sure to follow @VisitHamiltonCo on Facebook and Instagram to see what's happening in #VisitHC.