Hungry Ghost Festival aka Lunar 7th Month just passed, and I experienced my first ever Auction and Dinner. You know, one of those huge tentage setups with getai (singer's platform) and loud auctions that go deep into the night?
Ever curious about them, I accepted an invitation to attend one. After all, I am always excited about different cultures and events.
So there were 2 stages in the brightly-lit tent, and also many round tables seated with people from all walks of life, enjoying the festivities of the lunar 7th Month.
One of the stages featured "getai" singers, dressed to the nines in sequined gowns and all, belting out oldies usually. It is said that at a "getai" performance, the first 2 rows of seats are left empty deliberately, for the enjoyment of the "good brothers" aka spirits.
The other stage was more dominant, with an emcee auctioning many items such as symbols of prosperity, bottles of X.O. and eben soft toys. Interesting to watch the bidding going on.
Foodwise, we were treated to an 8-course Chinese dinner, this particular event by Mapollo Catering. Dinner commenced late, close to 8.10pm.
Dinner kickstarted with a
Mixed Platter comprising Shrimps, Top Shell, Jellyfish, Bak Kwa (roast pork slices) and pickled Century Egg. Then we had a tasty Pork Ribs and Stomach Melon Soup, fragrant with aroma of whole white peppers.
Other items to grace the table included
Suckling Pig with ultra crispy skin and melt-in-mouth flesh,
Abalone Mushroom with Cabbage,
Steamed Fish with Sambal Coating, and
Steamed Prawns.
Last but not least, a palatable
Fried Buns stuffed with Char Siew dish; we wish they had second helpings for this! Finally, something sweet to conclude the night-
Iced Lemongrass Longan with White Fungus.
Overall, we enjoyed ourselves in this vibrant event and was surprised the food was overall quite delightful as well.
