Taibo Temple Fair delights crowds with rich cultural offerings

The Taibo Temple Fair, a national intangible cultural heritage, kicked off with lively festivities in Meili Ancient Town, Xinwu district, Wuxi on Feb 18.

Dragon and lion dances are performed during the temple fair. [Photo/WeChat account: xinwu_wx]

About 400 participants from nearby communities paraded through the streets, showcasing traditional Chinese performances such as dragon and lion dances, waist drum dances, traditional Chinese clothing fashion shows, and qipao shows. These vibrant demonstrations displayed the folk customs of the Jiangnan region (the area to the south of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River), attracting over 100,000 visitors.

About 400 people participate in the parade. [Photo/WeChat account: xinwu_wx]

In addition to the parade, this year's fair also featured a bustling market. Attendees were treated to a variety of local delicacies including lamb, traditionally brewed rice wine, and noodles.

A preview of the film Taibo is held during the Taibo Temple Fair. [Photo/WeChat account: xinwu_wx]

An advance screening of Taibo was also arranged. The film tells the story of Taibo, the eldest son of the King Tai of Zhou, and his younger brother introducing advanced agricultural techniques, bronze casting methods, and culture to Meili. It is scheduled for release in the first half of this year in major cinemas across Wuxi.

The Taibo Temple Fair is part of the 2024 Wu Culture Development Conference. The conference includes a rich array of activities throughout the year, including riddle guessing during the Lantern Festival, photography exhibitions, traditional music concerts, plum blossom-related painting and calligraphy exhibitions, as well as traditional opera performances.