Mazu Pilgrammage Cultural Event
Sunday, May 19, 2024, 9:30 – 11:00 AM at D2 Shopping Center
A rare occassion, Mazu’s pilgrammage has chosen Houston on its pilgrammage route this year.
On May 19, 2024, progression will start at Taipei Cultural Center at 8:30 am and will head towards D-Square Shopping Center where a Mazu station will be set up, allowing for guests and worshippers to pray for protection, fortune, and health.
For those who wants to skip the parade, can visit Mazu’s statue at D-Square Shopping Center from 9:30 am to 11 am.
A Very Brief Background: The Beigang Chaotian Temple (北港朝天宮), built in 1700, is a classified national monuments and a well-known historic and worship site in Taiwan. It houses Mazu, the godness of the sea, a powerful and benevolent Queen of Heaven who protects sailors ensuring safe-crossing.
Every year, there are pilgrimmages where worshippers would walk hundreds of meters carrying her statue. The pilgrimmages are such important events drawing millions of visitors that in 2024, Taiwan’s Ministry of Culture officially designated the pilgrammage as a “cultural heritage asset”.
What to expect: Guests, VIP, media, crowds. It will be noisy, flashy, and lots of spiritual energy. An occassion to witness the Taoism and Buddhism rituals.
Last but not least, please be mindful of the 2 hour parking limit at the shopping center.
Organizers: Taiwanese Association of Houston, Taiwanese Junior Chamber of Commerce, Southwest Management District.
Photo credit: Taiwan Tourism
