Yunlin Home for the Friendless Children's Dream Comes True: Riding the 'Yige' Float

The Yunlin Home for the Friendless is thrilled to announce that 24 children will fulfill a lifelong dream by participating in the renowned Beigang Chaotian Temple's Mazu pilgrimage parade on May 6th. This significant event, a major religious festival in Taiwan, includes a vibrant 'Yige' (藝閣) parade, where children dress as historical and mythical figures atop decorated floats.

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The children are very much looking forward to this experience and gaining a deeper understanding and knowledge of the local century-old culture.

For these children, the opportunity to ride an 'Yige' car is particularly special. Traditionally, participation requires self-funded costumes and the preparation of small gifts to distribute, making it a rare experience for children from less privileged backgrounds. Thanks to the support of local organizations like the Yunlin Xin Shenghuo Development Association and the Beigang Chuangyi Cultural Association, these children will not only realize their dream but also gain a deeper understanding of their local cultural heritage.

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From field research, hands-on creation of the Yige car model, to actually getting on the Yige, this is the first time for these Home for the Friendless students to experience it.

This initiative is a beautiful example of community spirit and cultural preservation. The children themselves have actively engaged with the tradition, with some spending six years on field research and four months building a model 'Yige' car. This hands-on involvement underscores the importance of passing down traditional beliefs and culture to the younger generation. The Home for the Friendless sees this as a unique chance for the children to connect with and appreciate a century-old local custom, fostering a sense of belonging and cultural pride.

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It is a rare opportunity for children from the Home for the Friendless to experience this, especially since they have to bear the costs of costumes and preparing gifts.