Since ancient times, why do people like to visit temple fairs during the Spring Festival? When did this custom begin?

The Spring Festival can be said to be the most lively and grand festival among all the traditional festivals in China. During the Spring Festival, various activities emerge one after another, among which visiting temple fairs is essential. In fact, temple fairs are not only a custom during the Spring Festival, but also on festivals such as the Lantern Festival and the Beggar's Fair. Temple fairs can be traced back to ancient times, and their forms have undergone different evolution through continuous development.

First, the prototype of ancient sacrifices and blessings In ancient times, people worshipped and feared unknown forces, among which ghosts and gods were the representatives who possessed this power. Therefore, people often worship ghosts and gods through rituals such as offering food and playing music. This form of assembly can actually be regarded as the embryonic form of the later temple fair. Temple fairs, as the name implies, are related to religious activities and temples. The same is true of its formation and development. Many gatherings are held near temples to worship gods or entertain and shop.

Second, the market transaction of the festival carrier As mentioned above, the temple fair originated near the temple. Once the crowd gathered, there was a demand for trading. In ancient times, many vendors gathered near temples to set up stalls to attract customers' consumption. There are many kinds of goods, and toys with folk crafts can be seen everywhere here. Over time, on certain days of festivals, when the crowds in temples are concentrated, the business of vendors is also the busiest. So what? Temple? With what? what's up Temple fair is a combination of the two. Temple fairs during the Spring Festival are also very lively.

Third, people's demand for entertainment life During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, people's demand for entertainment spirit was more obvious, because various folk entertainment arts were also developing rapidly. Visiting temple fairs has become an increasingly popular folk entertainment. In order to cater to this trend, various localities have also begun to establish and plan special temple fairs. Today, every grand festival, all parts of the country will be decorated with lanterns and colorful decorations, and temple fairs with different themes will be held for people to visit and play. This custom has been passed down here. Temple fair can be said to be the product of economic and cultural development.