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Birthday of Tin Hau, also A-Ma in Macau (April or May) Tin Hau, the Taoist goddess of the sea and patron saint of seafarers, is one of Hong Kong’s (and Macau’s) most revered gods and there are temples in her honour throughout the territory. During the festival, fishing boats decorated with flags and banners sail to their nearest temple and on land there are lion dances and parades. International Film Festival (2nd and 3rd week Apr) 22/F 181 Queen’s Rd Central, T 2970 3300, http://www.hkiff.org.hk 0900-1730 Mon-Fri, 0900-1200 Sat. This two-week festival showcases everything from current Palm D’Or and Academy Award winners to obscure old films from around the world. There is a special emphasis on independent film-makers and of course many Asian films. Le French May Festival of Arts (last week Apr) (Assorted venues.) http://www.frenchmay.com Tickets: http://www.urbtix.gov.hk The grandest French festival in Asia includes classical and contemporary French arts. It is a well-respected cultural event over six weeks and includes ballet, architecture, photography, jazz, visual arts and mime. Buddha’s Birthday (Apr/May) Worshippers bathe Buddha’s statue and there are celebrations around the major monasteries and temples, especially Po Lin (Lantau) and Miu Fat (Tuen Mun) Monasteries. Tam Kung’s Birthday (Apr/May) Celebrating another patron of the sea at the Tam Kung temple in Shau Kei Wan (built in 1905), seafarers pray for safety and good luck on their travels.
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