The golden body of Mazu patrols Meizhou Island in Fujian Province. Mazu admirers from both sides of the Taiwan Strait participate in the grand event

On October 9, 2023, the Meizhou Island Mazu Temple launched a series of events to celebrate the 1037th anniversary of Mazu’s ascension to heaven. This vibrant celebration, held in Putian, Fujian, featured a grand procession of the Mazu statue around Meizhou Island.

As the clock struck 8:45 AM, the air was filled with excitement as the rhythmic beats of drums and gongs echoed throughout the temple grounds, drawing in large crowds. Distinguished guests from both sides of the Taiwan Strait paid their respects to Mazu before stepping outside to fire ceremonial cannons, officially kicking off the festivities.

“Let us graciously invite the Mazu statue to set off on its journey!” resonated through the scene, blending seamlessly with the sounds of drums and fireworks. Devotees gathered to witness this significant moment as the statue was paraded, bestowing blessings upon Meizhou.

The procession was led by six majestic horses and included teams from Taiwan showcasing traditional drumming, the Thousand-Mile Eyes and Wind-Ear deities, and lively lion dance performances. Following the folkloric display, a ceremonial guard and honor guard accompanied the festivities. At the center of it all were Meizhou women dressed in traditional Mazu attire, flanking a participant in Han clothing alongside the Mazu statue. Lin Jinzan, the chairman of the Meizhou Mazu Temple board, joined fellow Taiwanese attendees and countless Mazu admirers in a procession that stretched for miles.

Throughout the day, the Mazu statue made its way through several temples, including Shangxing Palace, Lianchi Palace, Longxing Palace, and Hushi Palace, ultimately arriving at Wenxing Palace.

The statue’s pilgrimage will include stops at 17 Mazu temples on Meizhou Island, culminating in a grand maritime sacrificial ceremony at the Xiamen Village Ship of Blessings on October 11, which marks the ninth day of the lunar month.

In addition to the statue’s journey, the celebrations will feature a variety of cultural activities, including the “Meizhou Petal Incense” national calligraphy and painting exhibition, a large-scale cultural performance titled “The Origin of Meizhou,” Puxian opera shows, a mesmerizing light show at the Peace Tower, and a spectacular fireworks display.