LinZi：Over a Thousand Descendants of the Jiang Clan Gather from Home and Abroad in Linzi, Zibo

临淄区委宣传部2025-09-24 10:45

　　"Seeking roots and honoring ancestors" has always been a central theme of the Qi Culture Festival. The annual ceremony held on September 12 to commemorate the birth of Jiang Taigong (Jiang Ziya) is not only a cultural gathering that transcends geographical boundaries but also a solemn occasion for descendants of the Jiang clan worldwide to reunite and trace their shared heritage. This year, the grand cultural event once again commenced magnificently in Linzi, Zibo.

　　In the early morning, the profound beats of drums and the distant resonance of bells echoed in front of the Jiang Taigong Memorial Hall. The elegant music of "Jiuli" from the ancient ritual piece "Qishao Jiucheng" filled the air as traditional ceremonial dances were performed with great solemnity. More than 1,700 descendants of Jiang Taigong from around the world gathered here, with representatives from various clans presenting flower baskets in turn to pay homage to this revered ancient statesman. The scene was both dignified and grand, reflecting a deep sense of cultural identity and national sentiment.

　　It is reported that the Jiang surname, one of the ancient Chinese family names, has branched into over 100 surnames spread across the globe, including Cui, Qiu (邱), Gao, and Lü, among others. Based on historical chronology, Jiang Taigong’s birthday is calculated to fall on September 12 of the Gregorian calendar. As the ancient capital of the Qi State and the site of the Jiang Taigong Memorial Hall, Linzi has naturally become a sacred destination for descendants to worship their ancestors. Qi Hong, director of the Qi Family Tradition Committee, stated, "As descendants of Taigong, we inherit his spirit of benefiting the people and embodying profound virtue, passing it down as our family’s fine tradition. We must make meaningful contributions in the contemporary era, dedicating our efforts to the revitalization of our nation and people."

　　Since its inception in 2004, the Qi Culture Festival has spanned 22 years. Using the festival as a platform and ceremonial activities as a bond, Linzi District has continuously promoted the creative transformation and innovative development of Qi culture, steadily expanding its international reach and influence. The ceremony in honor of Jiang Taigong has not only strengthened the cultural brand of "seeking roots and honoring ancestors" but has also become an important vehicle for fostering ethnic unity and enhancing cultural confidence.

　　In addition to the traditional folk ceremonies, this year’s event featured a multi-experience zone in the square of the Jiang Taigong Memorial Hall, integrating intangible cultural heritage displays, local cuisine, and cultural entertainment. This attracted a large number of residents and tourists, further revitalizing the modern appeal of traditional culture and infusing the ancient rituals with a contemporary vibrancy.