On the evening of March 1st, 2024, the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto was invited by the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Toronto to participate in the "Taiwan Night 2024" celebrating the Lunar New Year event.  FGS Toronto not only sent out the Dragon and Lion Dance Team to perform but also invited Venerable Yung Kang to prepare the authentic Taiwanese delicacy, "Red Date Longan Glutinous Rice Porridge," to share with attendees. Additionally, Mabel Lam, President of the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) Toronto Chapter, along with Advisors Winnie Kwong, Lisa Luong, and Louis Chan, promoted the "Vege Plan A," highlighting vegetarianism as a sustainable andcompassionate lifestyle choice.

The evening unfolded with grace and excitement as the Fo Guang Dragon and Lion Dance Team took center stage, captivating the audience with their agile movements and symbolic gestures. The performance culminated in a rousing display of "Plucking Green," eliciting waves of applause and admiration from the spectators.

Attendees were further treated to a buffet-style food fair, featuring a diverse array of Taiwanese snacks curated in collaboration with local restaurants. The popularity of the "Red Date Longan Glutinous Rice Porridge" from the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto underscored its authentic flavour and cultural significance, with two hundred bowls quickly distributed among participants.

Director General Jin-Ling Chen of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Toronto expressed gratitude for the support of Fo GuangShan and the BLIA Toronto Chapter, emphasizing their commitment to promoting Taiwanese culture and fostering community engagement. Their contributions exemplify the spirit of Humanistic Buddhism, embodying values of gratitude, affinity, and compassion.

The participation of the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto and the BLIA Toronto Chapter added depth and richness to the "Taiwan Night 2024" celebration, showcasing the vibrant culture and culinary heritage of Taiwan. Through their captivating performances and delectable offerings, they not only delighted attendees but also strengthened bonds within the community, fostering a spirit of harmony and goodwill.