Chongqing - The 2024 Fengdu Temple Fair is set to be held from April 11th to 14th in Chongqing's Fengdu County. This grand fair is divided into four chapters, comprising 17 activities.

According to Wang Xiaojun, Deputy County Mayor of Fengdu, the Fengdu Temple Fair, as one of the most significant folk cultural events, originated from ancient folk incense gatherings. It is held regularly on the third day of the third lunar month each year. It is known for its rich folk flavor, diverse activities, large-scale processions, and broad participation, making it a favorite among locals and tourists. 

Since its restoration in 1988, the fair has been held for over 20 sessions. In 2014, it was listed as one of the fourth batch of national intangible cultural heritage representative projects. It served as the "golden name card" of Fengdu's folk culture and an important cultural and tourism integration carrier.

The procession is the highlight of the Fengdu Temple Fair. Peng Songtao, Secretary of the Party Committee of the Fengdu County Commission of Culture and Tourism Development, revealed that this year's fair will feature six large-scale floats, six performance teams, and over 1,000 performers parading along a 2-kilometer route. 

The procession integrates dance, dragon and lion dances, acrobatics, instrumental performances, and amusement rides. Highlighting Fengdu's unique characteristics and folk customs, performances such as the Raft Dance, Drum Dance, Bamboo Drum Dance, Bull Dance, and Lion Dance will be showcased. 

Notably, this year's Fengdu Temple Fair will highlight love culture, injecting new cultural connotations into the millennium-old event.

"We will emphasize mythological love stories and the theme of three lifetimes of fate, allowing citizens to embark on an unforgettable journey of blessings," said Peng Songtao. 

The procession will depict legendary love stories through floats and performances, narrating in chapters the encounter, acquaintance, and love between Yin Tianzi and Tianzi Niangniang.

"The procession will occur at 3 p.m. on April 11th, 12th, and 14th. Additionally, the first nighttime procession will commence at 7 p.m. on April 13th, creating a dreamy and romantic atmosphere, offering citizens and tourists an unprecedented immersive experience," Peng Songtao added.

Various activities that promote consumption and benefit the people will be held during the fair. Visitors can savor authentic Fengdu flavors at the "Most Bullish Fengdu" feast and "Fengdu Spicy Chicken" food exhibition, enjoy new scenic spots such as Mingshan Mountain, Nantian Lake, and purchase high-quality goods at the 9th Chongqing Cultural Tourism Consumer Season and "Fengdu Gifts" exhibition.