For families and friends, it’s more than just a cultural celebration – it’s an opportunity to step outside, slow down, and share simple joys together.
From heritage streets to highland breezes, here are five cool spots you should check out.
1. Thean Hou Temple
Steeped in history and spiritual beauty, Thean Hou Temple in Kuala Lumpur – one of the biggest and oldest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia – offers one of the most enchanting mid-autumn experiences in Malaysia.
Families often arrive early to wander through its expansive courtyards that glow with lanterns. Light some incense, offer a prayer, and soak in the cultural performances happening across the temple grounds.
Instead of buying a lantern, why not make one with your loved ones at the lantern-making workshops? Crafting it together on temple grounds makes it even more meaningful.
And of course, don’t miss the mooncake tasting tables, tempting you with both sweet and savoury delights
Follow Thean Hou Temple on Facebook. For location, click here.
2. Kwai Chai Hong
In the heart of Chinatown, Kwai Chai Hong transforms into a living artwork every Mid-Autumn Festival. The narrow lanes glow with vibrant lanterns, while the murals come alive under the moonlight.
The star of this year’s celebration is the “Moonlit Blossom” installation, running until Oct 12, featuring gigantic osmanthus flowers and a massive floating moon.
Look a little closer and you’ll spot key scenes from the festival folklore: Wu Gang endlessly chopping at the self-healing osmanthus tree; Chang’e, the goddess of the moon; and the Jade Rabbit.
It’s a magical way to share the stories of mid-autumn with your kids. You can also explore the heritage streets, pause for photos beneath luminous arches, and enjoy mooncakes from pop-up stalls.
Click here to learn more about Kwai Chai Hong. For location, click here.
3. The Exchange TRX
The Exchange TRX’s “Moonlight Elegance” turns the city’s popular lifestyle hub into a festive wonderland celebrating reunion, tradition and togetherness.
Begin your evening on the rooftop, where glowing rabbit lanterns light up the skyline, and remember to pause to take in the view.
From there, stroll down to the Dining Terrace and Market Lane, both decked out in themed décor that makes every corner photo-worthy. Then stop by Tea Rock to sip fragrant teas or pick up mooncakes and gift sets.
Visit The Exchange TRX’s website here. For location, click here.
4. Gohtong Way, Resorts World Genting
High above the city lights, Gohtong Way at Resorts World Genting offers a mid-autumn celebration like no other. The cool mountain air and glowing lantern displays create a magical backdrop for family gatherings.
But don’t be mistaken – you’re not here just to snack on mooncakes or let the kids dash along the pedestrian street. As the moon rises over the highlands, catch street performances from serenading buskers, playful clowns, and towering stilt walkers.
Keep an eye out for the Moonbunny, the goddess Chang’e, and her husband, the legendary archer Hou Yi – perfect for a magical photo moment.
The festivities run until midnight, with plenty of restaurants offering outdoor seating so you can savour dinner under the moonlight.
Learn more about Gohtong Way here. For location, click here.
5. Armenian Park, George Town
The Tanjong Mid-Autumn Carnival at Armenian Park transforms the heart of George Town into a glowing wonderland of lights and blossoms, with over 300 lanterns as well as art installations for visitors to admire.
Themed “Blossoms Under the Full Moon”, the highlight is a striking orange pavilion with a three-tiered roof, flanked by two lantern-framed bridges.
Adding a personal touch, many of the lanterns on display were actually handmade by participants in a lantern-making workshop held just last week.
This annual, month-long mid-autumn carnival, which ends on Oct 6, is truly a community affair, with people from various cultural backgrounds coming together.
For location, click here.