The birth of the goddess Matsu was marked by a grand TV gala in Taiwan on Friday. The gala, co-sponsored by Fujian province and Taiwan, was staged at the Taizhong County stadium with 10,000 people from both sides of the straits coming to celebrate the special day.

Matsu, the goddess of the sea is especially worshipped by both Fujian and Taiwan residents, who pray to the goddess for safety at sea and prosperity in life.

Nearly two hundred artists performed at the concert which depicted the goddess' legendary stories as well as her kindness for the common people. Some of the big names include Elva Hsiao, Shin, Evonne Hsu and Teng Ko Erh. The audience listened to their wonderful performances and took part in cross-straits exchanges of their shared Matsu culture.

One happy Taiwan resident is already looking forward to next year's celebration.

"I hope audiences from both sides of the straits come to the celebration every year. I think the event is wonderful and the exchanges in cross straits culture are not only very important, but also sacred. I think the goddess Matsu must also feel very happy about this."

Organizers of this important cultural exchange between the mainland and Taiwan say they will extend the performances southward to residents of Tainan.