GEORGE TOWN: The vibrant state-level Chap Goh Meh in Penang attracted thousands eager to embrace the festival’s spirit of love and unity.
Often regarded as the Chinese Valentine’s Day, this year's event held even greater significance as it coincided with Western Valentine’s Day on Feb 14.
Organised by the state, the festivities at the Esplanade began at 5pm, featuring an array of cultural performances.
Spectators enjoyed the elegant Dondang Sayang Peranakan dance, a breathtaking lion dance on stilts, drum shows, an impressive Chingay display, and the mesmerising Chinese mask-changing performance.
Throughout the night, live bands and musical acts entertained the crowd, culminating in a dazzling fireworks display at about 10.45pm.
Themed "Reminiscing Love," the celebration highlighted love and togetherness, with attendees enthusiastically participating in the traditional orange-tossing ritual, a symbolic gesture of seeking romance and good fortune.
While Chap Goh Meh is traditionally observed on the 15th day of the Chinese lunar calendar, marking the end of Chinese New Year festivities, this year’s Penang celebration was postponed from its original date on Feb 12 to accommodate Thaipusam observances.
Consequently, the rescheduled event serendipitously aligned with Valentine’s Day.
Penang tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, in his speech, said this convergence of celebrations underscores Penang’s reputation for multicultural harmony and inclusivity.
"This alignment reinforces our state’s rich diversity and the unity among our communities," he said.
