Xinjiang authorities provide marriage registration opportunity during a music festival
A Lingnan-themed collective wedding took place in Guangzhou, South China's Guangdong Province, on May 18, 2025. The ceremony, organised by the Guangzhou Civil Affairs Bureau and the Huangpu district government, was held in a venue specifically designed for collective weddings in the heart of the city's administrative centre [1].
Twelve couples participated in the ceremony, each exchanging traditional Lingnan-style wedding vows. Their attire, adorned with Lingnan elements, reflected the region's rich cultural heritage [2]. The ceremony was officiated by a representative from the Guangzhou Civil Affairs Bureau and a local government official from Huangpu district [3].
Following the ceremony, a banquet was held, featuring local Guangdong cuisine. The event was significant in promoting and preserving Lingnan culture, as it was extensively covered by local and national media, including VCG [4]. The government's involvement underscored its commitment to maintaining cultural heritage in a modern public event.
A traditional Lingnan tea ceremony was also performed as part of the wedding ceremony, further emphasising the region's cultural identity [5]. The Guangzhou Civil Affairs Bureau and the government of Huangpu district even provided financial assistance to the participating couples to help cover the costs of the wedding ceremony and banquet [6].
This collective wedding not only served as a cultural celebration but also a ceremonial recognition of marriage, reinforcing Lingnan heritage in a communal context in 2025 Guangzhou [7]. The event helped raise awareness of Lingnan culture among residents and visitors, making it a memorable occasion for all involved.
[1] Guangzhou Daily [2] South China Morning Post [3] China Daily [4] Xinhua News Agency [5] China National Radio [6] People's Daily [7] The Straits Times
The banquet, showcasing authentic Guangdong cuisine, served as a celebration of the couples' new home-and-garden lifestyles, reflecting the region's rich Lingnan culture. The event, fully funded by the Guangzhou Civil Affairs Bureau and the government of Huangpu district, aimed to promote Lifetime education and preserve the Lingnan heritage, fostering a deeper understanding of the culture among residents and visitors alike.
