Believe it or not Hong Kong is a nation of immigrants. Since 1949 there have been over 5 million of them, primarily from the mainland. Prior to that Hong Kong had many small villages with their local customs. Due to the cultural revolution in China many of these local festivals vanished. However, in Hong Kong some remain. I had the opportunity to visit one such festival. It is for Hau Wong's Birthday. It is celebrated in only a few spots in Hong Kong, one of which is in Tung Chung. It was a wonderful day, full of sights, sounds and smells.
Golden Pigs are brought to offer the god. I don't know why they are called golden since they are red, but who am I to judge.
A local woman enjoying the festival.
At times the air was so thick with the smoke form incense it looked like something was on fire somewhere.
Lots of flags everywhere.
There were many dragon dances.
And lots of music. The whole day was so loud my ears were ringing for hours.
More pigs.
This dragon was very long and it would twist and wrap around itself.
A major component of the festival is the Chinese opera. I was able to go back stage to see the performers getting ready.
The day was loud and hot. I admit to being very tired by the time I got home, but I feel very fortunate to have experienced this day. There are so few of these local festivals left and it would be a shame to loose them. As for this years festival, I think Hau Wong will be pleased.
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