Lugang Dragon Boat Festival Features Historic 'Double Dragon Meeting'

The historic "Lugang Celebration of the Dragon Boat Festival" is underway, marked this year by a unique and significant event: the "Double Dragon Meeting." For the first time in history, the revered Dragon King deity from Lugang Longshan Temple is joined by its counterpart from Mailiao Gongfan Temple in Yunlin County. This unprecedented gathering celebrates the 60th anniversary of the reshaping of the Lugang Longshan Temple's Dragon King deity.

Festivities commenced with a grand procession led by Changhua County Magistrate Wang Hui-mei and Yunlin County Magistrate Chang Li-shan. They, along with other officials and temple representatives, presided over the deities' procession. Accompanying the Dragon King deities were local performance troupes, including the "Twelve Sister" formation, dragon drum teams, and folk dance groups. The procession, stretching nearly a kilometer, featured 12 dragon boats parading through the streets, culminating in a blessing ceremony and the "eye-dotting" ritual at the Fulu River dragon boat racing venue, officially launching the Lugang celebration.

Magistrate Wang Hui-mei highlighted the community's involvement, noting the participation of local arts troupes, schools, and community teams. Magistrate Chang Li-shan emphasized the historical significance of the Mailiao Gongfan Temple, which is over 340 years old, and its deep connection with Lugang Longshan Temple, both having been initiated by the same master craftsman.

The celebration extends beyond the opening ceremonies, featuring a series of events including international dragon boat races from June 19th to 21st. Additionally, the Asia-Pacific Lugang Resort Convention Hall will host the "Luban Gong Banquet" showcasing traditional craftsmanship from June 18th to 21st. Traditional opera performances are scheduled at Lugang Longshan Temple from June 20th to 21st. On the actual Dragon Boat Festival day, June 19th, a large "Tiger Charm" installation art piece will be available for photos, alongside traditional children's games. Evening activities include a light festival in the old streets and a riverside concert.

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The Mailiao Gongfan Temple is over 340 years old. This visit to join the Lugang Longshan Temple's Dragon King deity in prayer together allows us to witness history.