PENNSAUKEN, NJ - Boat People SOS. (BPSOS) will be hosting the 1st Annual BPSOS Moon Festival next weekend. Musical entertainment will be provided during the Festival by Vietnamese pop sensation duo Truc Linh and Truc Lam and the St. Helena Golden Lion Dance Troupe. Attendees may also participate in hands-on Lantern making along with the customary Lantern Parade. Highlights also include an elder sharing activity and a Vietnamese Traditional Children's Fashion Show. The festival is catered toward families and is intended to be fun and educational for people of all ages.

The event will take place on Saturday, September 20, 2003 from 2pm - 6pm. The free celebration will be held at the Stardust Ballroom on Rt. 73 & Haddonfield Rd.

Many Vietnamese communities in the US hold Mid-Autumn Moon Festivals, including Washington D.C. Seattle, San Francisco, Houston, Philadelphia, and Orange County. Informational booths representing Planned Parenthood, the AmeriCorps Recruitment Program, and PNC Bank will be on display.

Originally, the Festival came about as a way for parents to make up for lost time with their children after harvest season. It was held under the full moon, which represents fullness and prosperity of life. Thousands of children and their parents come to participate at this annual event. It is a wonderful gathering where children can learn about the Vietnamese culture in a festive and vibrant atmosphere. The festival is one of the most participated annual events in many Vietnamese communities nationwide.