Snug Harbor is home to the New York Chinese Scholar's Garden — one of only a couple of authentic scholar's gardens outside China — which makes it the city's most atmospheric place to mark the harvest moon. The festival packs performances, demonstrations and storytelling into a single golden-hour afternoon on the garden campus. If you've never ferried over for Staten Island's cultural crown jewel, this is the ideal excuse.
What to expect
An afternoon of performances and demonstrations across the Snug Harbor campus, with craft stations for kids, moon-legend storytelling and the botanical gardens open to wander. Families make up much of the crowd. Leave time for the Chinese Scholar's Garden and the Tuscan Garden while you're on the grounds.
Good to know
- Free Staten Island Ferry, then the S40 bus or a short rideshare to Snug Harbor
- The Chinese Scholar's Garden may have separate admission — worth it
- Family-friendly with hands-on craft activities
- Grounds are large and walkable; wear comfortable shoes
- Pair with dinner in St. George near the ferry terminal
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Common questions
What is the Autumn Moon Festival?
A harvest-moon celebration rooted in East Asian Mid-Autumn traditions — performances, legends, mooncakes and family activities.
How do I get there from Manhattan?
Take the free ferry to St. George, then the S40 bus about 10 minutes to Snug Harbor's gate.
More at Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden
