Chiayi County Dragon Boat Festival Races on June 19-20, Featuring a 480-Second Fireworks Display

(Central News Agency reporter Cai Zhiming, Chiayi County, June 3) The 40th Chiayi County Dragon Boat Festival races will be held on June 19 and 20 at Dongshi Fisherman's Wharf. The Dongshi Township Office stated that free oyster congee will be provided to visitors on June 19, and a 480-second maritime fireworks display will be held on the evening of June 20, promising a spectacular event.

The Dongshi Township Office in Chiayi County issued a press release today stating that a total of 42 teams will participate in this year's races, including 6 in the open men's division and 36 in the open mixed-gender division. Deputy County Mayor Liu Pei-tung, Dongshi Township Mayor Lin Chun-hsiung, and Wu Sen-yuan, chairman of the Dongshi Xiantian Temple, performed the eye-dotting ceremony for the dragon boats today, symbolizing that the boats, once their eyes are opened, possess the power to ward off evil and ensure a safe and smooth competition.

Lin Chun-hsiung stated that this year marks the 40th anniversary of the dragon boat races, and the township office has expanded the event. On June 19, Dragon Boat Festival day, there will be performances, food stalls, and a children's play area. Fresh, locally sourced oyster congee will be offered free of charge to visitors, showcasing Dongshi's warmth and hospitality.

Furthermore, on the afternoon of June 20, singers including artist Cai Xiaohu will perform in succession, followed by a 480-second maritime fireworks display at 8:00 PM.

Lin Chun-hsiung expressed gratitude to the Chiayi County Government, the Southwest Coast National Scenic Area Administration, the Dongshi Port Gang Temple, the Xiantian Temple, and outstanding Dongshi natives living in Taipei for their strong support, which made it possible for the fireworks to light up Dongshi's night sky and inject vitality into Dongshi's tourism. (Editor: Li Hsi-chang) 1150603