Bun fun at unique island festival
Description
The unique Cheung Chau Bun Festival (May 9-13) drew thousands to the outlying island of Cheung Chau to experience an ancient thanksgiving ritual, enacted annually by the islanders.
The festival's centrepiece comprised three giant bamboo towers completely studded with blessedly delicious white buns, specially prepared for the occasion by the island's bakers. Cantonese opera kept the crowd entertained. The Piu Sik (Floating Colours) Parade, featuring kids dressed as deities and celebrities, seemingly floating in air was a highlight. The high jinks of lions and dragons, to the tune of thundering drums and hooting flutes, amplified the excitement. Twirling Taoist priests in tall hats and long, red robes conducted sacred rituals.
The festival reached its zenith in the Bun Scrambling Competition, a frenzied scuttle by individuals and teams up a separate tower to grab as many "buns" as they could - the higher the grab, the luckier the snatch.
Category
Photo Date
14 May 2019
Resolution (in pixels)
4802 x 3334
Price
$ 23
Photo ID
1157423