The Wanshan Matsu Tourism & Culture Festival was held April 27 on Big Wanshan Island as numerous villagers and tourists commemorated Matsu's Birthday with parades, lion dances, hearty food, and an auction.

Matsu (also known as Tin Hau and Mazu) is a legendary goddess of the Southern Sea revered by seafarers who appeal to her for wellbeing, prosperity, and favorable weather. Her birthday has been celebrated for generations on the 23rd day of the third lunar month.

The Matzu Temple was already packed with worshippers at 7 am, ready with sacrificial offerings like roasted pigs and fruits. The dances outside ignited a jubilant atmosphere amid blaring trumpets and pounding drums.

Matzu procession

Accompanied by two lions, a dozen people paraded the Matsu statue from the temple. A float imitating a "boat" paddled by "sailors" on the "blue sea" was added for the first time to signify a smooth year.

Afterward, the lion dance troupe went door to door grabbing lettuce (shēngcài, a homophone for making a fortune) and red envelopes (hóngbāo) held aloft. The performance is said to bring wealth and good luck to merchants.

A sudden rain later didn't spoil the evening fun as visitors joined villagers at a 120-table Matzu Birthday Feast and an auction to raise funds for maintenance of the Matzu Temple.

Float [Photos by Chen Lin / Zhujiang Evening Post]