People in Dongshi hang lanterns in the temple during Lantern Festival. [Photo/fujian-szwhg.chaoxing.com]

Dongshi Lantern Festival Folk Custom is a vibrant celebration held in two coastal villages named Dongshi, one in Jinjiang, Fujian, and the other in Chiayi, Taiwan. Recognized as a representative project in national intangible cultural heritage under folk customs, this tradition holds significant cultural importance.

The historical ties between Jinjiang's Dongshi and Taiwan run deep, with generations of people migrating across the Strait. During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the number of migrants increased, leading to the establishment of settlements named after their hometowns.

The Dongshi Lantern Festival Folk Custom begins on the thirteenth day of the first lunar month and lasts for three days. A key tradition involves newlywed grooms hanging lanterns brought by their brides in the temple, with a prominent red lantern on display. The highlight of the event is the activity called "Budeng", where grooms compete to win the large red lantern. This tradition symbolizes blessings for a prosperous marriage and offspring.

The Dongshi Lantern Festival Folk Custom in Fujian and Taiwan exemplifies the shared customs, spiritual connections, and blood ties between the two sides. It reflects the deep-rooted desire of the Dongshi people on both sides for family prosperity and the flourishing of future generations, serving as a vivid embodiment of the cohesive spirit of the Chinese nation.