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Each year, Hong Kong celebrates the birthday of Tin Hau (天后誕), also
known as the Queen of Heaven and Goddess of the Sea, who enjoys a special place in people's
hearts thanks to the territory's long maritime history. Many people in Hong Kong still
owe their livelihood to the sea and celebrate Tin Hau's birthday every year.
- - Tin Hau festival - - Shek O
Shek O village, located on the southeast of Hong Kong island, is famous for its beaches,
villas and nice restaurants. There is also a Tin Hau festival including Chinese opera.
- - Tin Hau festival - - Shek O
Shek O village features a few Thai restaurants. Having a good lunch there,
before enjoying free Chinese opera during Tin Hau festival, is a good idea.
- - Tin Hau festival - - Shek O
Poster with donations from local Shek O villagers. Donations range
from 10 000 HKD to 500 HKD.
- - Tin Hau festival - - Shek O
According to Anthony, a Tin Hau parade also happens during the festival.
But it only takes place every 10 years (last one was 2006 – so next one is 2016).
- - Tin Hau festival - - Shek O
The Chinese opera theater is in the middle of the parking in front
of the beautiful Shek O beach.
- - Tin Hau festival - - Shek O
There is free Chinese opera until the end of the Tin Hau festival.
- - Tin Hau festival - - Shek O
The opera is an offering to the deity Tin Hau, who is protecting local
fishermen.
- - Tin Hau festival - - Shek O
During the daytime, the crowd is not big. So it is still possible to
secure a seat close to the stage to do close-up pictures.
- - Tin Hau festival - - Shek O
The Tin Hau festival is happening late in the year
in Shek O to avoid conflicts with touristic season.
- - Tin Hau festival - - Shek O
In other Hong Kong SAR areas, Tin Hau festival is celebrated during April or May.
The western date varies as it is linked to lunar calendar.
- - Tin Hau festival - - Shek O
Listening and watching a Chinese Opera live is always a great
experience.
