The Taibo Temple Fair, held in Meili Ancient Town in Wuxi, Jiangsu province, kicked off on the ninth day of the Chinese New Year. Recognized by UNESCO as a significant cultural practice associated with the Spring Festival as of December 2024, the fair was launched with great enthusiasm and festivity.
This year’s program skillfully fused traditional elements with modern innovations. Residents and visitors enjoyed a colorful folk performance parade that not only showcased age-old cultural traditions but also incorporated flash mobs and other interactive segments. The inclusion of international participants and a procession featuring traditional Chinese attire added a fresh, cosmopolitan flavor to the celebrations.
Alongside the performances, a lively market offered an array of traditional delicacies, folk crafts, and immersive experiences related to intangible cultural heritage. Among the attendees was Ekaterina Vorobeva, a Russian student from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, who expressed her amazement at the vivid dragon dance and overall dynamic atmosphere. With such a rich tapestry of cultural activities and the anticipation surrounding its role in the upcoming 2025 Spring Festival Gala, Meili Ancient Town has firmly established itself as a top travel destination during the Spring Festival holiday.
12 Comments
Karamba
The diverse program ensures there is something for everyone to enjoy at the fair.
Matzomaster
The event feels overly staged and lacks the spontaneity of a true cultural expression.
Karamba
The inclusion of elements from other cultures dilutes the uniqueness of the Chinese tradition.
Rotfront
The fusion of traditional and modern elements creates a vibrant and engaging experience for all generations.
Karamba
The participation of international students showcases the global appeal of Chinese traditions.
Comandante
The inclusion in the Spring Festival Gala provides a platform for the event to reach a wider audience.
Africa
Attracting more visitors brings economic benefits to the local community and promotes cultural tourism.
Mariposa
Focusing on entertainment diminishes the importance of the spiritual aspects of the celebration.
Bella Ciao
Including intangible cultural heritage seems like an attempt to artificially inflate the importance of the fair.
Comandante
Promoting the event as a tourist destination disrespects the sacredness of the Taibo Temple.
Muchacho
Turning the fair into a top travel destination only leads to overcrowding and exploitation of the cultural heritage.
ZmeeLove
The inclusion of international participants feels forced and detracts from the authenticity of the festival.