An event for worshipping the South Sea God, an important part of the ongoing 5th Guangzhou Folk Festival, attracted numerous visitors from across the Pearl River Delta region on March 17.

Held at Guangzhou's South Sea God Temple (also known as Boluo Temple) every year, the South Sea God worshipping event, also known as Boluodan by locals, is an important tradition for the people of the Pearl River Delta. The event is meant to celebrate the god's birthday, which falls on the 13th day of the second lunar month of the Chinese calendar.

On March 17, people from throughout the Pearl River Delta region flock to Boluo Temple to worship the South Sea God. [Photo/Xinhua]

The ancient Boluodan temple fair is dedicated to promoting intangible cultural heritage and spreading the cultural essence of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. This year, artists from throughout the Greater Bay Area gathered in Boluo Temple to participate in dancing and music activities.

Cultural shows have always been highlights of Guangzhou's annual Boluodan event. This year, 13 intangible cultural heritage items, including Guangxiu embroidery, Boluoji (a chicken-shaped handicraft representing fortune), and paper-cutting art, were put on display.

This year, the South Sea God's birthday falls on March 19, and a grand ritual known as "Wu Zi Chao Wang" was held. During the ritual, people dressed up as the god's five sons and enacted their return to celebrate the god's birthday. 

Boluoji, chicken-shaped handicrafts meant to bring good luck and fortune, are on display. [Photo/Xinhua]

Huangpu district holds folk performances on March 17. [Photo/Xinhua]