Kinmen's 'Parent-Child Centipede Parade' kicks off, warming up for City God Festival

The Kinmen City God Festival series is underway. On the 23rd, the 'Parent-Child Centipede Parade,' featuring 100 children on human-powered centipede-shaped floats, took to the streets. A procession of over 300 people marched through Jincheng Township, warming up for the main 'City God Pilgrimage' on the 28th. As part of the 2026 Kinmen Wudao City God Cultural Season, the carnival featured 50 sections of human-powered centipede floats passing through downtown Jincheng, attracting many spectators. Jincheng Township Mayor Li Cheng-chih stated that the centipede float is one of Kinmen's most traditional performance arts. He hopes that parent-child participation will help children understand traditional culture and expressed gratitude for the military's annual support. The centipede float symbolizes the removal of impurities and the bringing of blessings. Folk belief suggests that children who participate in the parade will grow up smart and healthy, and those who carry the floats are believed to receive divine protection. According to the Jincheng Township Office, 100 children participated as 'performers' this year, with over 300 people involved including parents, volunteers, and staff. The cultural season opened on May 2nd, and the main event, the City God Pilgrimage, will take place on the 28th.