Cheung Chau Bun Festival set to attract millions in Hong Kong

Thursday, May 4, 2023

Cheung Chau Bun Festival (May 23- May 27, 2023) is a traditional Chinese festival that takes place annually on the island of Cheung Chau, located off the southwestern coast of Hong Kong. The festival is held in honour of the Taoist deity Pak Tai, who is believed to have saved the island from a deadly epidemic over 200 years ago.

The highlight of the festival is the Bun Scrambling Competition, which takes place on the final day. Participants climb a 14-meter-high tower covered in steamed buns and try to grab as many buns as possible within three minutes. The competition is highly competitive, and participants train for months in advance to improve their agility and speed.

The festival also features lion dances, dragon boat races, and a parade of colorful floats and traditional costumes. The island’s temples are open for worship and offer a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural history.

Aside from its cultural significance, the Cheung Chau Bun Festival is also a major tourist attraction, drawing thousands of visitors from around the world each year. The festival provides a unique opportunity to experience traditional Chinese culture, sample local cuisine, and witness breathtaking performances.

In recent years, the festival has faced criticism for its use of unsustainable materials, such as plastic packaging for buns and disposable utensils. Efforts have been made to address these concerns and promote eco-friendly practices, such as using reusable containers and promoting waste reduction.

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