The second half of April brings with it an annual tradition in Taiwan, the Dajia Mazu Pilgrimage. As the goddess Mazu returned to Changhua, local believers greeted pilgrims with fanfare and special treats.
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Sizzling eggs must be a beautiful sight for pilgrims following the statue of the goddess Mazu as part of the Dajia Mazu Pilgrimage. After being carried for several days, Mazu has returned to Changhua in central Taiwan along with many tired travelers. Three local believers have decided to treat pilgrims entering Changhua with free eggs, bringing relief and nutrition to their tired legs. Indeed some say the delicious eggs covered with soy sauce make them feel ready to march on.
The three women from Changhua County’s Tianzhong Township cooked over 700 eggs for pilgrims, all paid for by donations from believers. One of the cooks says they made over 3000 eggs last year.
A red sign posted in front of the frying table shows the names of those who donated to buy the eggs. But they aren’t the only people who helped usher in Mazu’s return.
Local students from the university scooter team ride in front of the pilgrims as a welcoming party for Mazu, while foreign exchange students cheer on from the sidelines.
Whether celebrating with dancing or donating a painting of the goddess, everyone in Changhua seems to be celebrating Mazu’s return.