About 100 fishing boats are expected to set out from Nan’ao on Sunday as commercial fishing resumes in the South China Sea following a three-and-a-half-month seasonal suspension.

The 2026 Nan’ao Fishing Festival will begin at 11 a.m. at Shuangyong Wharf in Dapeng New District. At noon, when the summer fishing moratorium officially ends, the fleet will sound its horns before heading out to sea.

The annual moratorium is intended to protect marine fish stocks during a key breeding and growth period. Its conclusion traditionally marks one of the most important occasions of the year for coastal fishing communities.

Sunday’s program will include a kylin dance and performances of Dongshan fishing songs, two forms of local intangible cultural heritage. Fishing songs have traditionally been used by residents to express hopes for favorable weather, safety at sea and a plentiful catch.

A waterfront market will offer fresh and dried seafood, local snacks and handicrafts inspired by the traditions of the Tanka fishing community. Seafood restaurants across Nan’ao are also expected to introduce special menus featuring the day’s catch.

A man displays a large fish he caught off Dongyu Wharf in Dapeng New District on Aug. 16, 2025, after last year's seasonal fishing moratorium ended. Lai Li

Festivalgoers may enter a free on-site draw for one of 60 portions of giant grouper. The fish, supplied by a local seafood company, weighs more than 50 kilograms. Each prize portion will weigh about 400 grams, enough for two or three diners.

Visitors who present a photo taken at the festival may collect and mail a complimentary Nan’ao-themed postcard at the visitor center serving the Shuitousha and Moon Bay area. Limited-time vouchers offering a 10% discount on recreational fishing and sightseeing boat trips will also be distributed.

Date: Sunday, Aug. 16

Festival opening: 11 a.m.

Fishing fleet departure: Noon

Venue: Shuangyong Wharf, Nan’ao, Dapeng New District (南澳大鹏双拥码头)

Getting there: Visitors are encouraged to use public transport because parking near Shuangyong Wharf is limited. The venue is beside Shuangyong Wharf bus stop. Those driving to the festival must reserve entry to the Dapeng Peninsula in advance through the Shenzhen traffic police WeChat account “深圳交警,” as the event falls on a Sunday.