Traditional culture in plain words
Mazu's Birthday (Tin Hau, 天后誕)
The 23rd day of the third lunar month is the birthday of Tin Hau (天后), the guardian of the sea. Chinese communities around the world mark the day with lively temple celebrations. In 2026 it falls on 9 May.
At a glance
How the festivals began
Tin Hau is also known as Mazu (媽祖). She is honoured as the guardian of the sea, watching over fishermen, sailors and travellers on the water. Many Tin Hau temples stand in southern China and Hong Kong, in Taiwan, Macau, Singapore, Malaysia, and in overseas Chinese communities.
Each year, temples hold birthday celebrations on this day. The festivities are especially grand in Taiwan, along the southern coast of China, and in Chinese communities overseas.
Traditional customs
Customs vary a little from place to place. Common ones include floral-cannon processions (花炮會, a thanksgiving parade), lion and dragon dances, and opera staged in honour of the goddess. Worshippers also light incense to give thanks for her care through the year.
Festival dates are converted from the lunar calendar and are for reference only. Customs vary a little from place to place. For temple and community events, please follow the organisers' announcements.