By MOOK Travel & Lifestyle Network, reported and compiled by Chen Guanxin
The golden, sweet bananas of Qishan in Kaohsiung have not only brought decades of economic prosperity to the area but also cultivated a rich cultural heritage accumulated over the years. To celebrate this, the Qishan District will host a series of events for the Banana Culture Festival from August 11 to 12. In addition to a concert by the “Taiwan Youth Banana” band on the evening of the 11th, the program includes a health walk, guided tours of the historic street, competitions such as the Banana Strongman, Banana Water Maiden, and the Banana City Costume Show, as well as exhibitions of banana-related artifacts and a showcase of agricultural products from nine districts in Qimei. All related activities and guided tours are free to join upon registration.
The Banana Culture Festival, set to launch on August 11, offers a variety of activities free for the public to enjoy. (Photo provided by Qishan District Office)
The “2012 Banana Culture Festival ~ Let’s Party in Banana City!” series of events will take place from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM on August 11, and from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on August 12. The Banana City Concert on the evening of the 11th will feature performances by the local “Taiwan Youth Banana” band and community performance groups, along with a lucky draw. On the morning of the 12th, a 3.5-kilometer health walk will guide participants through the scenic mountain trails of Gushan Park. Registration for the walk, limited to 350–400 people, is open now until August 10.
The Banana Strongman and Banana Water Maiden selection events, scheduled for August 12, are open for registration until August 10, with the champion of each receiving a prize of NT$5,000. The Banana Strongman competition will feature contestants carrying bananas on bamboo poles in the traditional style used by banana farmers, giving participants a taste of the hard work of early banana growers. Also on August 12, the Banana City Costume Show, which invites creative entries themed around “banana imagery,” has registrations open until August 6. The winner of this contest will also receive NT$5,000.
Additionally, during the event period, there will be fun competitions such as a land-based banana boat race, free blood pressure check-ups, and a Q&A quiz. For more details, visit the Qishan District Office website at www.chishan.gov.tw/style/front001/bexfront.php.
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