2012 Yelui Cultural Festival kicks off on February 4th
2012 Yelui Cultural Festival will be held from February 4th to 6th at Baoen Temple in
Yelui District, New Taipei City. The event will kick off with 101 participants dive into the ocean followed by 5,000 free talismans for anyone who is interested in worshipping in the temple for the New Year.
This festival is part of the Taiwanese tradition similar to the lantern festival in Pinshi, with this year’s theme being prosperity and auspiciousness. Other features of this year’s festival on February 6th include the prayer ceremony and divine fire show where several representatives dive into the ocean with god’s promise, signifying the experience of both water and fire. The specially-made free talismans will be available for good luck in the New Year. In order to promote this event, Wanli District Office also has a series of recommended tourist spots such as several SPA resorts and restaurants. Special discount will also be available for people who are interested.
Other similar events intended to give citizens a chance to experience and appreciate the old cultures will be incorporated with several souvenir shops, artists’ performance, and art gallery. A photo and essay competition will also be held from January 20th to February 15th with the first prize being $44,000NTD cash with an award certificate. Works can be sent to www.2012野柳神明淨港. tw before February 23rd.