Kuan Kung's Birthday in Taiwan

Date: Kuan Kung's Birthday is celebrated on the 24th day of the sixth lunar month each year.

History: Kuan Kung, also known as Guan Yu or Guan Gong, was a historical figure during the late Eastern Han dynasty who later became a deity in Chinese folk religion, Taoism, and Chinese Buddhism. He is revered for his valor, loyalty, and righteousness. Over time, he has come to be worshipped as the God of War and is a patron saint of brotherhoods and businesses.

Traditions:

• Temple Visits: Many Taiwanese people visit temples dedicated to Kuan Kung to pay their respects. The most famous one is the Guan Di Temple located in Xingtian District, Taipei.
• Offerings: Worshipers offer incense sticks, food offerings such as roast pigs and fruit, and burn joss paper to honor the deity.
• Reenactments: Some communities hold reenactments of events from Kuan Kung’s life or stories that showcase his virtues.
• Business Communities: Businesspeople particularly venerate Kuan Kung by praying for fair dealings and prosperity. They may also conduct cleansing rituals for their places of business.
• Martial Arts Demonstrations: As he is associated with martial valor, some martial arts schools may give performances or hold competitions in his honor.

What People Do: On this day, people engage in various celebratory activities such as:

• Attending ceremonies at temples
• Participating in parades with elaborate floats and dragon dances
• Observing traditional performances like Peking opera excerpts featuring tales related to Kuan Kung
• Engaging in community feasts where offerings are shared among participants after rituals

These activities serve both religious purposes for seeking blessings and fostering a sense of cultural community among participants.