A three-day event kicks off in Auckland tonight to celebrate China's traditional Moon Festival.

Photo: RNZ / Kate Newton

The festival is also popular in other Asian countries such as Japan, Vietnam and Singapore.

The Moon Festival originated during China's Tang dynasty more than 1000 years ago.

It's a time for families to gather, enjoy the full moon, eat mooncakes and play with lanterns.

The three-day celebration is at Potters Park and nearby Mt Eden War Memorial Hall.

There will be cultural performances, food stalls and lantern shows, plus demonstrations of how to make mooncakes - the traditional delicacy of the festival.

This inugural event is organised by the Albert Eden Local Board, Balmoral Chinese Business Association and the Dominion Rd Business Association.