The Cultural Tradition Changes of the Kaiyang Festival and Xieyang Festival in Zhoushan Area: Historical Context and Modern Transformation

The Kaiyang and Xieyang Festivals in Zhoushan area are closely linked to local marine culture and folk beliefs, especially the Dragon God belief, and originated from marine production. Influenced by traditional sea god beliefs and fishing methods from ancient to modern times, they have seen changes. Western culture made sacrifice objects more diverse. Modern social changes led to fishing technology innovation and ideological shifts, altering festival connotations and reducing superstitious elements. Young people now focus on cultural and social aspects. The Zhoushan government's policies and social participation have expanded the festivals' cultural connotations to include cultural inheritance and tourism. These festivals are crucial for Zhoushan's marine culture inheritance and have boosted local economic development.