The City God Temple's Spring Fair is now on to May 12, where everyone has the opportunity to enjoy traditional Chinese activities.

The temple fair is a local custom, which was particularly popular many years ago, when public entertainment events were few. Visitors to the temple during the fair can sample handicrafts, food, and special performances.

In the past, people, especially young women, would deck themselves out in their finest clothes to accompany friends and relatives to the temple. In some traditional stories, the temple fair was even a place for romantic liaisons. And after all these years, it remains a curiosity for visitors.

The first thing to do on arriving at the fair is to sample the hundreds of delicious, Shanghai-style snacks, such as deep-fried bean curd, pies, spicy beans, steamed buns, and many kinds of candy. The boss of a stall selling deep-fried bean curd said he sold more than 3,000 orders of curd each day.

In addition, it is a good opportunity for shopping. Most Chinese handicraft, including chopsticks, embroidery, Chinese butterflies, fans, and clothes are offered at special prices.

In the small square, one can watch interesting performances. Magic shows are a speciality of this event.

Besides the shows, games are also popular. Both children and adults can participate in activities such as skipping rope, kicking stones, and throwing coins for luck.

( Shanghai Star May 3, 2002)