The 20th edition of the Shek O Tai Ping Ching Chiu, a decade-long traditional Taoist ritual, is underway in Hong Kong, drawing large crowds of local citizens and tourists to the Shek O area. The five-day event, which began on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, features a highlight “floating color” parade on its main day, Saturday, November 7.
A Decade-Old Tradition Draws a Crowd
The festival, organized by the villages of Shek O, Tai Long Wan, and Hok Tsui, is the last of its kind on Hong Kong Island and is listed on the Hong Kong Intangible Cultural Heritage Inventory. Taking place every ten years, the ritual’s history can be traced back to the early 19th century. The previous edition was held in 2016. On Saturday morning, a parade featuring participants dressed as deities and historical figures began at the Shek O car park, led by a lion dance, and proceeded through the area before returning to the starting point after about two hours. The event also includes religious ceremonies, Cantonese operas, and opportunities for prayer and blessings.
Another visitor noted they were not very familiar with the activity beforehand
but gained a comprehensive understanding of its history after an hour at the event. The most important thing is the peace and well-being of the whole village.
Boost for Local Businesses
A restaurant owner reported a 50% increase in business compared to normal days. In line with the traditional custom of vegetarianism during the ritual, the restaurant offered only vegetarian dishes, which the owner noted tourists were happy to accept as part of experiencing the local culture.
The participation extends to children, who are invited to dress up as characters from mythology and history. This year, a 6-year-old boy was selected after a competitive process to dress as an emperor during the parade, delighting the crowd with his waves.
Special Traffic Arrangements in Place
Due to the large number of attendees, the Transport Department implemented special traffic arrangements on Saturday. From 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., several roads, including Shek O Shan Tsai Road, Shek O Village Road, and sections of Tai Long Wan Road, were closed in phases. To facilitate public access, Citybus added special services. The X9 route, running from Central (Macau Ferry Pier) via Wan Chai and North Point to Shek O, operated at 8:50 a.m., 9:10 a.m., and 9:30 a.m. The terminus for the regular No. 9 and X9 bus services was temporarily relocated to the Shek O Beach Public Car Park from 6 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. the following morning.
The Transport Department anticipated heavy traffic in and around Shek O and Tai Long Wan and urged the public to avoid driving to the affected area, use public transport instead, and follow police instructions on site.
The festival is expected to continue with its full program of religious and cultural activities through November 8, 2026.
