Special Programme for Tai O Dragon Boat Water Parade

 

Talk on the "Significance of ICH Transmission: the Tai O Dragon Boat Water Parade"

Co-organised by:

Intangible Cultural Heritage Office South China Research Center, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Joint Association of Traditional Dragon-Boats in Tai O

The Tai O dragon boat water parade is a traditional activity unique to the local community. During the Dragon Boat Festival, the three fishermen's associations in Tai O, namely Pa Teng Hong, Sin Yu Hong and Hap Sim Tong, organise the dragon boat water parade. The associations' dragon boats tow sacred sampans carrying deity statuettes in a parade through Tai O waters to invoke blessings for well-being and peace. This has been practised for a century or more. The talk will introduce the historical, social and cultural significance of this national intangible cultural heritage (ICH), and elaborate on the significance of ICH transmission through this case study.

"Tai O Dragon Boat Water Parade" Observation Activity

The Tai O dragon boat water parade is an annual event for Tai O residents. It is an important way to strengthen community ties, and it is closely associated with local religions and traditional rituals. It has been practised for more than 100 years. In this tour, participants will travel to Tai O by free coaches and will have an opportunity to observe the dragon boat parade from the stilt houses along the parade route with local residents of Tai O, to experience this national ICH item and life in stilt houses.