The Mazu Festival holds a special place in Taiwan’s traditions, paying tribute to Mazu, the esteemed goddess of the sea.
Mazu Festival is held annually on the 23rd day of the lunar third month. It brings together communities from across Taiwan and beyond to celebrate the divine protector of fishermen and seafarers.
In the vibrant city of Taichung, the Mazu International Festival takes center stage, drawing millions of visitors each year. Pilgrims embark on a remarkable journey, following Mazu’s statue for 300 kilometers over nine days, crossing four cities. Along the way, pilgrims carry flags of worship, symbolizing their deep devotion to Mazu. Local temples warmly welcome pilgrims, serving up delicious delicacies and providing free meals to all attendees.
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The Tianjin Mazu Festival in China is also an amazing event. Thousands of people come together to honor Mazu with special ceremonies and parades full of colors. It is a time to think and feel closer as a community. People share stories and blessings, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity.
History of Mazu Festival
Mazu’s impact reaches beyond festivals, shaping the cultural landscape of coastal regions in China. Legend tells us that Mazu lived on Meizhou Island. She helped people and tried to save sailors who were in trouble, even if it meant risking her own life. Because people admired her, they built temples, and she was worshipped like a goddess.
Twice every year, there are big celebrations for Mazu at temples, where people stop their normal activities to make offerings and watch traditional shows. Additionally, smaller worship occurs year-round in thousands of Mazu temples all around the world. Here, people seek blessings for various aspects of life, including fertility, peace, and prosperity.
Believing in Mazu helps families be happy together and keeps coastal communities close together. It’s something that’s been important for a long time and is passed down from parents to children. The tradition of honoring Mazu continues to make people’s lives better and keeps the celebration strong.