(Minghui.org) The 2025 Shulin New Year Carnival Lantern Festival parade and activities were held in Shulin, New Taipei City, Taiwan on the evening of February 15, 2025. More than 1,000 people participated in the annual event, many carrying lanterns decorated with the twelve zodiac signs. Some were from the many folk associations and Shulin government organizations. The procession circled the city to pray for blessings. The Tian Guo Marching Band, waist drum team, and fairy team were invited to participate. Both sides of the road were lined with people, and the atmosphere was welcoming.
The procession set off from Haiming Temple, proceeded along Da’an Road, Zhongshan Road, Fuxing Road, Boai Street Night Market, Baoan Street, etc., and arrived at Zhennan Temple after circling the city.
Tian Guo Marching Band, waist drum team, and fairy team participated in the 2025 Shulin Lantern Festival celebration on February 15.
The Tian Guo Marching Band and waist drum team gave performances at Zhennan Palace Square on February 15.
The event started in 2003 to pray for peace and prosperity, and in 2006 was expanded to a lantern festival. The goal is to celebrate the Lantern Festival, light lanterns and pray for blessings, and spread light, warmth, and happiness to every corner of society.
Haiming Temple Abbot: The Band Brings Light And Hope
The abbot of Haiming Temple, Master Mingguang, also followed the team to pray for blessings. Along the way, he clapped in time to the band’s music. In his speech, he said, “I feel happy when I hear the music of Tian Guo Marching Band, and I thank the band and waist drum team for their participation.”
Master Mingguang said the band’s music brings light and hope, “The Tian Guo Marching Band plays beautiful music, which is very neat and solemn. People like their performances, and I feel the music can dispel evil and bring light, hope, confidence, and strength.”
The band members practice Falun Dafa, and believe in Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance. Master Mingguang agrees with these principles, and said, “We Taiwanese people need this very much. We need to pursue the truth and treat each other with sincerity. If we take a step back, we will be more broad-minded and tolerant. This is a very important cultivation. The Tian Guo Marching Band represents good Chinese culture. Many young people participate in their performances, which brings positive and bright energy to everyone.”
The band and the waist drum team joined the procession at 6:30 p.m. Many people took out their mobile phones to take photos and videos, and applauded, waved, and smiled.
While the waist drum team played their drums, Falun Dafa practitioners walked in front holding lanterns, greeting the audience. Along the way, practitioners distributed Minghui Weekly and lotus pendants, which were welcomed. The people happily accepted the materials.
People Praise the Band’s Performance
Lei, a teacher, brought his students to watch the parade. When he saw the band playing, he said, “I was touched. This is the first time I’ve seen such a large band in a parade. There were so many of the same instrument. It was spectacular.” When he heard that Falun Dafa practitioners practiced Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance, Lei agreed. He said that society needs these values so it can be peaceful and the country can progress.
Another spectator, Zhang, said the energy when the band played was very positive, and he felt it was good for children and adults. “The more positive energy there is, the better it is for the entire social atmosphere and the more stable society will be.”
College student Chen also praised the band, and said, “They are carrying traditional culture forward.” Regarding Falun Dafa practitioners practicing Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance, Chen said, “Only with this sincere and kind mindset can one live a happier life.”
Ms. Wang, who has participated in the Shulin Lantern Festival procession for several years, excitedly took photos of the band with her mobile phone. She said she had seen the band perform many times, “Tian Guo Marching Band has participated in many activities. They are very professional and great. I’m excited to hear their music, and I feel that Taiwan needs this. I hope our country and society can support their spirit.”
At the end of the event, the procession arrived at Zhennan Temple. The Tian Guo Marching Band and waist drum team once again performed at Zhennan Temple Square, drawing a large number of cheering spectators.
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