Taishan Mountain Temple Fair
Taishan Mountain Temple Fair is a comprehensive activity that combines religious culture and business trade together. It was originated in Tang Dynasty, formed its regulations in Song Dynasty, enjoyed its hey day in Ming and Qing Dynasties and declined on one occasion in the period of the Republic of China. It gradually became prosperous after the Reform and Opening up of China. As folklore says, March 28th and April 18th of lunar calendar were the birthdays of the God of Eastern Mountain and the Goddess of Bixia Yuanjun respectively, so ordinary people always hold temple fairs in March and April and go on a pilgrimage to offer incense at the temple, and celebrate the birthday of God of Taishan Mountain and Goddess of Bixia Yuanjun. At the beginning, the main content of the temple fair was religious activities. The pilgrims would eat, lodge, travel and entertain themselves. As a result, the business activities and cultural and entertainment activities also developed.
Nowadays, the main purpose of the temple fair has become economic trade, though there are various cultural and recreational activities to add the fun.