On July 28, the Waterborne Guandi Temple Fair kicked off grandly on Fenjiang river banks in Foshan, featuring colorful dragon parades, the ceremony of Guandi Lion settles in the temple, the Wealth Gathering Ceremony, and a 138-meter golden dragon parade.

Guandi Temple Fair Scene

Reappear the Bustling Scenes of the Ancient Fenjiang River

At 9 a.m.,the unveiling ceremony of the Zhengbu Pier began amidst the lively atmosphere on the Fenjiang River. During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, Foshan was known alongside Hankou, Jingdezhen, and Zhuxian as one of the "Four Great Towns" and was also part of the "Four Great Gatherings" along with Beijing, Suzhou, and Hankou. Zhengbu Pier, located within the ancient scenic area of Fenjiang River, was a key commercial hub and a testament to the bustling trade of ancient Foshan.

Guandi Parade

Spectacular "Hero Guards Guandi" Performance

Four Dejiao dragon boats cruised the Fenjiang River, resembling four lively dragons. Following this was the unique "Hero Guards Guandi" lion dance performance. Historical figures Liu Bei, Zhang Fei, Zhao Yun, Huang Zhong, and Ma Chao were represented as heroic lions guarding the central Guandi Lion, who was ceremonially brought into the temple. The dotting of the eyes and the adornment of flowers for the Guandi Lion symbolized good fortune and prosperity.

Guandi Lion Eye-dotting Ceremony

The Wealth Gathering Ceremony

Two Zhangcha rice boats, filled with the joy of harvest and the wishes of the people, approached the shore. Guests loaded heavy rice bags into special containers, accompanied by the sound of gongs, drums, and fireworks, igniting the enthusiasm of everyone present. The Wealth Gathering Ceremony symbolized the people's hopes for a better life.

Nine Days for Fun, Food, and Shopping

During the parade, a 138-meter golden dragon weaved through the city. Moreover, the parade featured nine formations, including the Guandi Lion-led "One King, Five Generals" lion dance, Cantonese opera culture formations, Foshan martial arts formations, and more. These formations performed at landmarks such as the Guandi Temple, Zhengbu Pier, Zhongyi Village Archway, GLORY SING PINGLI, and Dongfang Plaza.

138-meter Golden Dragon Parade

At Dongfang Plaza, the Lingnan Food Culture Festival, a key part of the temple fair, was in full swing. It featured Lingnan delicacies like Lunjiao cake, double-skin milk, Chencun rice noodles, and non-heritage crafts like Nanzhuang big buns and lanterns. From July 27 to August 4, the festival will include night dragon and lion dance performances, and traditional wishing games. Visitors can indulge in culinary delights and experience traditional culture.

Uniting Culture and Boosting Confidence

The Guandi Temple Fair was bustling with activities, including dragon and lion dances, Cantonese opera, Kungfu, papercutting, and ceramic art. These activities represent and showcase Lingnan's charm, making the city more attractive and lively.

Guandi Parade

Reporter | Zoey

Revisor | Eleanor, Lynn

Photo | Foshan News and Media Center, Zu Xuan

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