What a weekend! From October 4–6, World Square came alive for the very first Gong Festival, celebrating the Mid-Autumn season with lights, flavours, music, and community spirit.
Thousands of visitors joined us under the lanterns for three unforgettable days of cultural performances, live music, food adventures, and creative workshops. Whether you were tasting mooncakes, dancing under the lights, or capturing that perfect photo moment, you made this festival one to remember.
Relive the Highlights
Our social feeds were glowing all weekend — and the energy in person was even brighter. From the giant red gate to the ball pool, the festival was a feast for the senses.
Celebrity Chef Demos at the Gong Grocer
One of the standout highlights of Gong Festival 2025 was the live chef demonstrations at the Gong Grocer, where some of Australia’s most celebrated Asian-Australian chefs and creators took the stage. Across the weekend, festival-goers gathered to watch, taste, and learn as each chef showcased their signature style and flavours.
Our star-studded lineup included:
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Dimsimlim — bringing his street-inspired energy and bold, creative takes on Asian comfort food.
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Catherine Desserts — demonstrating mochi in multiple ways, from classic hand-shaped versions to playful, modern twists that wowed the crowd.
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Brendan Pang — showing his mastery of rice, blending technique with heartfelt storytelling.
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Liz Miu — serving up colourful, plant-based Asian dishes packed with flavour and nostalgia.
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Veronica Indrawn — combining heritage and innovation through her beautifully balanced recipes.
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Stephanie Feher — offering a taste of her communal dining concept, blending bold flavours with creativity and culture.
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Therese Lum — impressing audiences with her delicious taro cake and refined cooking skills.
Each demo celebrated the diversity, creativity, and spirit of modern Asian cuisine — a perfect reflection of what Gong Festival stands for.
Music, Culture & Community
The stage at World Square pulsed with energy all weekend, featuring live singers, traditional lion dance, and DJ sets by some of Sydney’s most exciting cultural groups and local artists.
Our workshops were a hit too — from mooncake making to lantern crafting for the kids.
Moments That Lit Up the Square
Our photographers captured some stunning shots across the weekend — take a look at the gallery below!
If you snapped your own photos, don’t forget to tag us @gonggrocer and use #GongFestival — we love seeing your favourite moments.
Couldn’t make it or want to relive the magic? Check out our official wrap-up reel for all the highlights — from the opening ceremony to the final night’s glow.
Thank You
A huge thank you to everyone who came along, performed, partnered with us, and shared their Gong Festival experience online.
This was our first-ever Gong Festival — and with your support, it certainly won’t be our last. Stay tuned for what’s next for Gong Grocer!