New York, NY — September 28, 2025 — Twenty youth members from the Formosa Association of Student Cultural Ambassadors (FASCA) Princeton and New York chapters gathered in Central Park on Sunday for a vibrant outdoor field day that combined traditional Taiwanese children’s toys with the spirit of the Mid-Autumn Festival.
The event showcased classic Taiwanese games such as spinning tops, Chinese yo-yos (diabolos), shuttlecocks, and kites. Throughout the afternoon, FASCA members enthusiastically invited visitors—many of them curious tourists—to try each activity. Laughter and cheers filled the crisp autumn air as children and adults learned to flick spinning tops, launch colorful kites, and master the rhythmic motion of the Chinese yo-yo.
Three FASCA counselors and several families from both chapters also joined the celebration, helping with demonstrations and sharing stories about Taiwanese traditions. “It’s inspiring to see our students teaching with such confidence,” said Counselor David. “They’re not only preserving their culture but also building connections with people from all over the world.” Counselor Chris added, “Watching families from different backgrounds enjoy these games together shows how culture can unite us.”
To highlight their skills, several students demonstrations of shuttlecock kicking, yo-yo tricks, and wooden top artistry. “It’s exciting to share something from our heritage with people who might be seeing it for the first time,” said Claire Su, President of FASCA Princeton chapter. “When someone learns a trick and smiles, it feels like we’re building a bridge between cultures.”
The day also carried a festive note as the group celebrated the Mid-Autumn Festival. A special tasting station offered an array of mooncakes—traditional pastries filled with lotus seed paste, red bean, and even modern flavors like matcha and litchi. Families picnicked under the trees while sampling the treats and learning about the festival’s meaning of reunion and gratitude. “I never tasted litchi mooncakes before,” said Felisha Yang, a FASCA member. “They’re sweet but not too heavy, and hearing the story of the moon goddess while eating them made the experience unforgettable.”
Tourists from around the world joined in, many pausing during their walks to take part. “I was just jogging through the park and saw all these kids spinning tops,” said Luca, a tourist from Germany with his daughter. “One of the students taught me how to use the Chinese yo-yo—it’s harder than it looks, but so much fun!”
Parents of the FASCA members praised the event’s atmosphere of community and learning. “This is exactly the kind of activity that shows how culture can be shared naturally,” said Mrs. Su-Ortiz, whose teenager daughter participated. “Everyone, no matter where they’re from, left with a smile.”
By sunset, the field was alive with new friendships and a deeper understanding of Taiwanese traditions. With counselors, families, and students working side by side, the Central Park field day successfully blended performance, play, and holiday celebration, giving New Yorkers and visitors alike a lively introduction to Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage.
Reported by FASCA Princeton – Aaron Wang
