Amid the triumphant pounding of gongs, the revitalized beat of drums, and the soaring melodies of traditional instruments, a magnificent 100m-long dragon wove through the Zhongying Street checkpoint into Shenzhen—where it was met by its glittering counterpart, Shalanxia Village’s shimmering fish lanterns, in a long-awaited cross-border reunion.  

The annual Tin Hau Festival, a centuries-old tradition uniting coastal communities in Shenzhen and Hong Kong, returned in full splendor this year. Over 20,000 mask-free spectators gathered along the Shenzhen-Hong Kong border to honor Mazu, the sea goddess, praying for safety and abundance after years of separation. Six Hong Kong troupes and four Shenzhen groups reunited in a vibrant cultural parade, their colorful procession symbolizing resilience and revival.  

The showstopper was Shalanxia’s UNESCO-recognized Fish Lantern Dance—a 300-year-old intangible heritage brought back to life. Performers wielded exquisite fish lanterns with renewed energy, their undulating movements mimicking fish darting through imaginary waters, as if celebrating newfound freedom after being confined to shore.  

"This isn’t just about preserving traditions," organizers noted, "but reconnecting our communities after challenging times." The festival stood as a testament to enduring cultural bonds—and the joy of celebrating together again.