Cheung Chau Da Jiu Festival

Cheung Chau Da Jiu Festival, held by the residents of Cheung Chau Island in Hong Kong, is a celebration known as the ‘太平清醮’, primarily honoring Xuan Tian上帝 (the Northern Emperor). It takes place annually in spring, starting from the 8th day of the fourth lunar month since 2001, which coincides with Buddha’s birthday. This event is the largest traditional activity in the area, attracting numerous residents from urban Hong Kong and international tourists who come to witness the spectacle.


The most eye-catching events of the festival are the ‘抢包山’ (Pao Shan) competition and the ‘飘色巡游’ (Flotilla Parade). The Pao Shan competition, a folk activity that had been suspended for several years, resumed in 2005 as a competitive event. In 2011, the Cheung Chau Da Jiu Festival, along with other traditional events such as the Tai O Dragon Boat Water Parade, the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance, and the Hong Kong Taoist Yu Lan Festival, was designated as a third batch of China’s national intangible cultural heritage. The festival’s unique colors have also earned it a spot on Time Magazine’s website as one of the ‘Top 10 Quirky Festivals’ worldwide.


Due to the festival’s most recognizable feature, the three large Pao Shan structures, it is also known as the Cheung Chau Bun Festival. The Hong Kong government refers to the Pao Shan competition and its related activities as the Bun Carnival. The event dates for 2024 are from May 12th to 16th, with the Pao Shan competition scheduled for the evening of May 15th, from 11:30 PM to 12:45 AM on May 16th. Full event access is available from May 12th to May 16th.


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