Kwan Tai’s (關帝) birthday is traditionally celebrated on the 24th day of the sixth lunar month. Celebrations for Kwan Ping (關平), the son of Kwan Tai, are observed in certain villages on the 13th day of the fifth lunar month, for instance, the Hip Tin Temple (協天宮) in Lai Chi Wo (荔枝窩). The worship of Kwan Tai holds the highest significance in Hakka religious culture. Despite practising a polytheistic religion, Kwan Tai receives the highest honour in the main temple establishments.
Most of the Hakka temples dedicated to Kwan Tai are named ‘Hip Tin Temple’, since the title ‘Hip Tin Emperor’ (協天大帝) is given to Kwan Tai in recognition of his proficiency in both scholarly and martial arts pursuits. Kwan Tai’s presence is easily noticeable in Sha Tau Kok (沙頭角), with a network of Hip Tin Temples scattered around the Sha Tou Kok Sea, including those situated in Lai Chi Wo, Kuk Po (谷埔), Nam Chung (南涌), Pok Tou Ha (膊頭下), Wu Shek Kok (烏石角) and Shan Tsui (山咀).
Considering the absence of festivities at the Tin Hau Temple in Kuk Po, holding a celebration for Kwan Tai’s birthday could be a captivating way to rejuvenate the area and pray for peace and prosperity for the villagers. It is believed that the local residents running businesses in Kuk Po will be pleased to support such celebrations.
Event highlights
- Hand-craft incense to honor Kwan Tai’s Birthday and pray for blessings.
- Clean and embellish the Hip Tin Temple, prepare food offerings for the deity, and bake traditional festive rice cakes, Hee Ban (喜粄). This allows participants to actively take part in the celebration, boosting the festive spirit of the rural community.
- A sea parade in the Sha Tou Kok area could be hosted by collaborating with the Hip Tin Temples mentioned above to commemorate Kwan Tai’s birthday.