On January 25, ahead of the Lunar New Year holiday, the Aberdeen Promenade was filled with energy and excitement. The melodies of traditional musical instruments carried by the sea breeze and a banner reading “Ancient Elegance Spreads Throughout the City” drew the attention of passersby. Meaning “Ancient Elegance Spreads Throughout the City,” the event reflected WeLoveU’s hope to enrich the hearts of modern people through the wisdom of traditional culture. Although it was winter, the warm sunshine made it an ideal day for an outdoor festival.
The event was prepared through close cooperation with the Southern District Office of Hong Kong. It was designed to deliver a warm message to the local community by encouraging people to reflect on the precious values of filial piety and family love.
Today, family disintegration has become a serious issue around the world, and Hong Kong is no exception. According to Hong Kong’s Census and Statistics Department (C&SD), the proportion of single-person households in Hong Kong has exceeded 20%, reaching a record high. In addition, the Hong Kong Institute of Family Education released statistics reported that one in ten parents does not engage in any emotional conversation with their children.
At a time when family conflict and isolation are deepening, this event served as a meaningful opportunity to reconnect family bonds.
Wong Choi Lap, District Committees constituencies (DCC) in the Southern District Council, attended the event and delivered congratulatory remarks. “Hong Kong is a city that developed from a small fishing harbor,” he said. “It is especially meaningful that an event preserving history and culture is being held here in the Southern District, where the atmosphere of a traditional fishing village still remains. I hope many citizens will participate and experience the roots of our traditions.”
On stage, elegant classical dance performances, disciplined martial arts demonstrations, and dynamic Korean taekwondo performances captivated the audience. The soothing melodies of the guzheng1, a traditional Chinese string instrument, offered citizens a moment of relaxation and comfort. Hundreds of attendees applauded the diverse performances, which beautifully blended tradition and modernity, bridged generational gaps, and united people of all ages.
Discovering the Warmth of Family at the Experience Booths
The six experience booths set up throughout the venue were bustling with visitors. Programs that offered both meaning and enjoyment were especially popular among attendees.
Programs
Passing Down Family Love
Participants tossed beanbags representing family members and caught them on the back of their hands. Through the activity, they learned the importance of cherishing their families.
Cantonese Exhibition Board
Participants learned traditional Cantonese expressions and their origins, fostering a sense of cultural pride.
Drawing Family Love
Participants completed family-themed illustrations, expressing their love and gratitude for their families.
In addition, activities such as lantern riddles and traditional costume origami encouraged families to work together and spend meaningful moments together. WeLoveU members assisted visitors throughout the venue, helping them enjoy the event comfortably.
Chan Yui Keung, a renowned broadcaster and public speaking instructor, said, “Since the pandemic, many people have been longing for emotional connection and love. I hope the positive influence shown by WeLoveU members will bring warmth and positive change to those around them.”
“As someone committed to promoting the culture of traditional Chinese medicine, I deeply relate to this event, which values tradition. It was especially pleasing to see young people taking the lead and actively engaging in cultural exchange.”
Candy Tse, Founder and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Kinderwell
“Children today rarely have opportunities to experience traditional games such as beanbag tossing or lantern riddles. I was deeply impressed by the thoughtful planning behind rediscovering these valuable intangible cultural traditions and passing them on to future generations.”
Wong Kwok Leung, Traditional Chinese Wedding Qungua2 Embroidery Master
The Power That Protects the Greatest Fortress: Family
Through “Ancient Elegance Spreads Throughout the City,” which planted seeds of family love in citizens’ hearts through traditional culture, participants were reminded once again that the power that protects the smallest yet greatest fortress, the family, is filial piety and love.
The event was a meaningful occasion that spread warmth throughout the city through the beauty of traditional culture, broke down barriers between generations, and helped restore family love.
WeLoveU will continue to communicate with local communities with a mother’s heart and promote the value of filial piety, helping every family maintain harmonious and loving bonds.
