A centerpiece of Hong Kong’s Mid-Autumn Festival, the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance draws locals and tourists every year, showcasing the vibrant cultural heritage of the Hakka community. Recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of the city since 2011, this dynamic performance has been celebrated for over 140 years. 

The Hakka, a subgroup of the Han Chinese, are known for their resilience and strong community ties. During the 13th century, they migrated from northern China into southern provinces like Guangdong and Fujian, bringing with them unique cultural practices that have been preserved over generations. In Hong Kong, there are today approximately 2 million people of Hakka origin. The Fire Dragon Dance serves as a vital link to the past, celebrating the traditions and artistry of the Hakka people.

Creating a fire dragon is a meticulous process where the materials are dried and rolled up, taking about two weeks to complete. Each year, a new dragon is constructed, measuring 67 meters in length and weighing over 90 kilograms for its body — the head alone weighs more than 45 kilograms. Made from rattan frames, ropes and straws, the dragon is brought to life through rituals performed before the dance begins.

RADII talked to a representative from the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Heritage Centre, who goes by Miss Lau. She shared insights into this cherished tradition and its significance in Hong Kong, emphasizing the dedication of participants in preserving their cultural heritage.

From September 16 to 18, the Fire Dragon Dance festivities featured a variety of performances, starting with vibrant skipping rope dancing, full of acrobatics and rhythmic movements, followed by the enchanting Little Dragon Dance (小火龍). This captivating performance, as Lau explained, debuted in 2023 and this year consisted of around 100 young performers carrying a 20-meter-long LED dragon. The performers trained for three months under the guidance of their community mentors to master intricate moves and techniques.

Later, the event moved on to the impressive Fire Dragon Dance, where around 300 participants — including veterans and young apprentices — skillfully brought the dragon to life. Before the dance begins, rituals are performed at Tai Hang’s Lin Fa Kung (蓮花宮) to awaken the dragon. Cheung Kwok-ho, 52, acting Commander in Chief of the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance, leads prayers in Hakka dialect. 

After this, the dragon was moved to the parade starting point on Ormsby Street, where the head is decorated and adorned with burning incense sticks. Every year, over the course of three days of celebration, the dragon traverses three routes through the streets of Tai Hang, captivating audiences with its vibrant displays.

Lau, the Heritage Centre’s representative, explained that in the past, only locals from the Tai Hang neighborhood were allowed to participate. Now, however, members of Hong Kong’s international community can sign up and join the performing crew, enhancing the diversity and inclusivity of the event.

As the fire dragon paraded through the streets of Tai Hang, the performers captivated the audience with their energy and artistry. Throughout the neighborhood, the dragon performed various feats, such as “Dragon Ball Playing” and “Fire Dragon-Twining Makes Pyramids.” The dynamic beats of drums and gongs enhanced the spectacle, while the accompanying Little Dragon Dance featured over 20 children holding lanterns modeled after mythical symbols, all of which enhanced the festive atmosphere and showcased the community’s rich cultural heritage.

The Heritage Centre’s representative stated that adverse weather conditions are always a challenge, especially as rain could extinguish the incense used during rituals, potentially disrupting the performance. 

Fortunately, as Lau explained, the participants relied on spiritual protection to ensure the event could proceed smoothly, as it has every year. She emphasized that the key message for spectators was a wish for great health, peace, and prosperity.

At its core, the Fire Dragon Dance conveys powerful messages of community, resilience and cultural pride. Participants highlight the importance of passing down traditions to preserve the hard work and joy associated with the dance. The event serves as a platform for fostering team spirit and understanding the rich history of Tai Hang, reinforcing the idea that cultural heritage is a shared responsibility.

With its vibrant displays and heartfelt performances, the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance not only captivates those who witness it but also fosters a lasting connection among participants from diverse backgrounds. As the dance continues to evolve, it promises to remain a lively celebration of cultural heritage, drawing communities together in joy and unity for generations to come.

Banner image by Daryl Eng.