An annual harvest fest “masalut” will soon begin in Sandimen. In conjunction with the festival, this year an indigenous open fair will be held to promote tourism and other related industry developments in local tribes. Visitors are encouraged to take part in traditional rites after they have appreciated Sandimen’s new portal, a glass bridge, and the beautiful scenery of Yiliao River. Guided tours are offered, through which participants can learn about Paiwan and Rukai culture. Tasty local food is served.
The schedule and events of this year’s masalut are as follows:
Activity I
08:00 – 22:00, Monday August 15, 2016
Location: Timur Elementary School, Sandimen Township
Content: Opening ceremony for the harvest fest, marching of chieftains for the main worship, traditional singing and dance, thousand-guest reunion dance, warrior dance, and traditional sports competition (including archery, head tricks, pushing skills and tug-of-war), and night of the harvest fest
Activity II
08:00 – 21:00 daily, from August 15 to 17, 2016
Location: Timur Elementary School, Sandimen Township
Content: Tribal market (including guided tours, handicrafts sales, DIY handicrafts workshops and a food court)
Activity III
August 16 & 17, 2016
Location: Timur Elementary School, Sandimen Township
Content: 64th Sandimen Township Sports Games
The festival will kick off at 08:30 on the morning of August 15 amid much fanfare. A formal opening ceremony will be held to show Paiwan’s harvest traditions, followed by a flamboyant thousand-guest dance which expresses the joy of a good harvest. During the activity period, an open fair “Pulima” will also be held. Visitors are free to explore the township’s cultural, tourist, agricultural and creative industries at the fair.
All members of the public are cordially invited to take part in this splendid event with us and experience the hospitality, tradition and culture of Sandimen Township.