Overview

Chinese Name: 瑶族夕九节
English Name: Xijiu Festival of Yao Ethnic Minority

The Xijiu Festival, also known as the “Xijiuliao Festival,” is a significant traditional celebration for the Yao ethnic minority in China. This vibrant festival is a time for community gathering, cultural expression, and the celebration of agricultural achievements. It is an important occasion for the Yao people, particularly in regions like Guangxi, Hunan, and Yunnan, where many Yao communities reside.

Historical Background

The Yao ethnic group has a rich history and diverse cultural practices. The Xijiu Festival is rooted in their agricultural lifestyle and marks a significant point in the farming calendar. Traditionally, it is celebrated after the harvest and symbolizes gratitude for the year’s crops, as well as a time to pray for good fortune and prosperity for the coming year.

Timing

The Xijiu Festival is typically celebrated on the 16th day of the 10th lunar month of the Chinese calendar. The exact timing may vary depending on local customs and agricultural cycles, but it generally aligns with the end of the harvest season.

Celebrations and Activities

The Xijiu Festival encompasses a variety of traditional activities and cultural practices, such as:

1. Offerings and Prayers: Families prepare offerings to honor their ancestors and local deities. These offerings usually consist of food, fruits, and livestock, symbolizing gratitude for the harvest and seeking blessings for future prosperity.
2. Cultural Performances: The festival features vibrant cultural displays, including traditional singing, dancing, and performances. Participants wear colorful traditional attire, and the festivities often include folk songs that celebrate Yao culture and history.
3. Community Feasting: Central to the celebration is communal dining, where families and community members come together to share meals. Dishes are prepared using local and seasonal ingredients, reflecting the agricultural bounty of the region. This communal aspect helps reinforce social ties and promote a sense of unity.
4. Games and Contests: Various games and competitions are held during the Xijiu Festival, contributing to the festive atmosphere. Traditional activities may include tug-of-war, archery, and races, promoting cooperation and healthy competition among participants.
5. Fire-Related Rituals: In some regions, the festival involves fire rituals, which symbolize purification and warding off evil spirits. These rituals are accompanied by specific ceremonies led by community elders or spiritual leaders.

Cultural Significance

The Xijiu Festival is a profound expression of Yao cultural identity, emphasizing values such as gratitude, solidarity, and respect for nature. It provides an opportunity for the Yao people to celebrate their agricultural heritage, strengthen community bonds, and reaffirm their cultural practices and beliefs. The festival plays a crucial role in preserving Yao traditions, fostering a sense of belonging and continuity among community members.

In summary, the Xijiu Festival is a lively and meaningful celebration for the Yao ethnic minority. Through its diverse activities, the festival showcases the community’s cultural richness and highlights the importance of unity, gratitude, and the celebration of life and agricultural success.

Overview

• Chinese Name: 瑶族达努节
• English Name: Danu Festival of Yao Ethnic Minority

The Danu Festival, also known as the “Yao New Year” or “Danu Jiedao,” is one of the most important traditional celebrations for the Yao ethnic minority in China. This festival is a vibrant expression of the Yao community’s culture, heritage, and agricultural practices. It typically marks the end of the harvest season and serves as a time for reflection, gratitude, and renewal.

Historical Background

The Yao people, also known as the Yao ethnic minority, have a rich history and a diverse array of cultural practices. The Danu Festival is deeply rooted in their agricultural lifestyle, symbolizing the transition between the old year and the new one. It is a period for honoring ancestors and deities, celebrating the community’s achievements, and initiating prayers for the future.

Timing

The Danu Festival is celebrated on the 1st day of the 12th lunar month of the Chinese calendar, usually falling between late December and early January. The timing may vary slightly by region and local customs, but it is broadly recognized and observed by Yao communities across various provinces.

Celebrations and Activities

The Danu Festival encompasses a wide range of cultural activities and ceremonies, including:

1. Ritual Offerings: Families prepare offerings to honor their ancestors and local deities, expressing gratitude for the past year’s harvest. These offerings often include rice, meat, fruits, and other food items, symbolizing abundance and respect.
2. Traditional Dress: During the festival, Yao people wear their traditional clothing, often characterized by bright colors and intricate patterns. This clothing not only showcases cultural identity but also strengthens community ties through shared heritage.
3. Feasting and Celebrations: Communal feasting is a central aspect of the Danu Festival. Families and neighbors gather to share meals, featuring traditional dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. The festive atmosphere is marked by joy, laughter, and camaraderie among community members.
4. Cultural Performances: Music and dance are integral to the celebration. Traditional songs, folk dances, and storytelling performances bring the community together and provide a platform for expressing cultural pride. Participants often perform traditional dances in communal circles, showcasing their rich artistic heritage.
5. Games and Competitions: Various games and competitions are organized during the festivities, encouraging friendly rivalry and teamwork. These activities often include traditional sports, such as tug-of-war, archery, and races, fostering a sense of unity and playfulness.
6. Ceremonial Rituals: Spiritual rituals and prayers are conducted to seek blessings for the upcoming year. These ceremonies are often led by community elders or spiritual leaders and include elements meant to purify and protect the community.

Cultural Significance

The Danu Festival is a significant cultural event for the Yao people, emphasizing themes of gratitude, renewal, and communal bonds. It serves as an opportunity to reflect on the past year, celebrate agricultural success, and set intentions for the future. This festival is crucial for preserving Yao traditions and fostering a sense of community identity among members.

In summary, the Danu Festival of the Yao ethnic minority is a lively and meaningful celebration that reflects the community’s rich cultural heritage and agricultural practices. Its various activities, rituals, and communal gatherings highlight the values of gratitude, unity, and the celebration of life, making it an essential part of Yao identity and culture.

Overview

• Chinese Name: 瑶族歌堂节/耍歌堂
• English Name: Getang Festival of Yao Ethnic Minority

The Getang Festival, also known as the “Geyang Festival,” is a significant cultural celebration for the Yao ethnic minority in China. This festival is characterized by its lively atmosphere, traditional customs, and deep-rooted cultural significance, typically revolving around themes of harvest, gratitude, and community bonding.

Historical Background

The Yao people are one of the many ethnic minorities in China, with a rich tapestry of cultural traditions. The Getang Festival is traditionally linked to agricultural cycles, particularly the rice harvest, and serves as a time to celebrate the fruits of labor, honor ancestors, and express gratitude for nature’s bounty. It reflects the Yao people’s connection to their land and the importance of community in their social fabric.

Timing

The Getang Festival is generally celebrated on the 6th day of the 6th lunar month in the Chinese calendar. The timing may vary slightly depending on local customs and agricultural calendars, but it primarily coincides with the peak of the farming season or shortly after the harvest.

Celebrations and Activities

The Getang Festival is characterized by various cultural activities and rituals, including:

1. Offerings and Rituals: The festival usually begins with elaborate rituals and offerings to ancestors and local deities. These offerings can include rice, fruits, and other food items, symbolizing gratitude and respect for the blessings received in the past year.
2. Traditional Attire: Participants dress in traditional Yao clothing, adorned with vibrant colors and intricate patterns. This attire not only reflects cultural identity but also strengthens community ties and showcases the uniqueness of Yao heritage.
3. Community Feasting: A hallmark of the Getang Festival is communal feasting. Families and neighbors come together to share meals, which feature an array of traditional dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients. This communal dining experience fosters a sense of unity and celebration among participants.
4. Cultural Performances: Music, dance, and storytelling play a vital role in the festivities. Traditional folk songs and dances are performed, often featuring energetic group performances that engage the entire community. These artistic expressions are not only entertaining but also serve to convey cultural values and history.
5. Games and Competitions: Various games and contests are held during the festival, encouraging friendly competition and camaraderie among community members. Activities may include traditional sports, such as tug-of-war, wrestling, and races.
6. Fire Ceremonies: In some regions, the Getang Festival includes fire-related rituals that symbolize purification and the warding off of evil spirits. These ceremonies often involve lighting fires in a communal setting during the evening.

Cultural Significance

The Getang Festival holds profound cultural significance for the Yao people. It serves as an opportunity to reflect on community achievements, celebrate agricultural success, and inspire hope for the future. The festival emphasizes values of gratitude, cooperation, and the importance of maintaining cultural traditions, which are essential for fostering a sense of identity among the Yao people.

In summary, the Getang Festival is a vibrant and meaningful celebration for the Yao ethnic minority, showcasing their rich cultural heritage and agricultural practices. Through its various rituals, communal gatherings, and cultural performances, the festival highlights the importance of unity, gratitude, and the celebration of life, making it an integral part of Yao cultural identity.

Overview

• Chinese Name: 瑶族倒稿节
• English Name: Daogao Festival of Yao Ethnic Minority

The Daogao Festival, also known as the “Danu Festival,” is an important traditional celebration among the Yao ethnic minority, particularly prominent in areas of southern China such as Guangxi, Hunan, and Yunnan provinces. It serves as a significant cultural event that reflects the community’s agricultural practices, spiritual beliefs, and social traditions.

Historical Background

The Yao people have a rich history and diverse cultural practices that are integral to their identity. The Daogao Festival is traditionally linked to the agricultural cycle, particularly centered around rice cultivation and the harvest season. This festival is a time for the Yao community to express gratitude for their harvest, honor their ancestors, and celebrate their cultural heritage.

Timing

The Daogao Festival is typically celebrated in the 11th month of the lunar calendar, though the exact timing can vary by region and specific local customs. It usually coincides with the completion of the harvest and serves as a festive conclusion to the agricultural year.

Celebrations and Activities

The Daogao Festival is characterized by a variety of activities that emphasize community, culture, and spirituality, including:

1. Ritual Offerings: The festival begins with rituals and offerings to ancestors and deities. Families prepare food, such as rice, meat, and fruits, as a show of gratitude for the blessings received during the year. These offerings are typically made at family altars or in communal areas.
2. Traditional Clothing: Participants dress in traditional Yao attire, often featuring colorful embroidery and designs that represent their unique cultural heritage. Wearing these garments reinforces a sense of identity and belonging within the community.
3. Feasting and Celebrations: Communal feasts are a centerpiece of the Daogao Festival. Families and friends gather to share traditional dishes, which may include special delicacies prepared for the occasion. This sharing of food symbolizes unity and strengthens social bonds among participants.
4. Music and Dance: Cultural performances, including traditional dances and music, play a vital role in the festivities. The Yao people celebrate through lively dancing, singing folk songs, and playing traditional instruments. These performances often involve energetic group dances that encourage participation and celebration.
5. Games and Competitions: Traditional games and competitions are held, such as wrestling, tug-of-war, and relay races. These activities foster community spirit and friendly competition while providing entertainment during the festival.
6. Cultural Rituals: Additional ceremonial activities may be included to seek blessings for the upcoming year, emphasizing the spiritual aspects of the festival. These rituals often involve group prayers and invocations for prosperity, health, and happiness.

Cultural Significance

The Daogao Festival holds deep cultural significance for the Yao ethnic minority. It not only marks an essential agricultural milestone but also reinforces community values of respect, gratitude, and togetherness. Through the observance of this festival, the Yao people preserve their cultural traditions while celebrating the bonds that connect them to their ancestors and the land.

In summary, the Daogao Festival of the Yao ethnic minority is a vibrant and meaningful celebration that encapsulates their rich heritage and agricultural practices. Through its various rituals, feasts, and cultural performances, the festival fosters a sense of unity, gratitude, and cultural pride among the Yao community, making it a significant aspect of their identity.

Overview

• Chinese Name: 瑶族掌肉待客节
• English Name: Zhangrou Daike Festival of Yao Ethnic Minority

The Zhangrou Daike Festival is a unique and vibrant celebration of the Yao ethnic minority in China, particularly observed in regions such as Guangxi and Hunan. This festival is characterized by its distinctive customs, traditional rituals, and communal activities, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and social values of the Yao people.

Historical Background

The term “Zhangrou” refers to “steamed meat,” which is a central element of the festival, while “Daike” can be translated to mean “gathering” or “celebration.” The Zhangrou Daike Festival has deep agricultural significance, traditionally marking the end of the harvest season and the time to commemorate the abundance of food and resources. It is a period for the Yao community to express gratitude to their ancestors and the spirits of nature, as well as to celebrate the strong communal ties that bind them together.

Timing

The Zhangrou Daike Festival is typically celebrated in the autumn, often coinciding with the harvest of rice and other crops. The exact timing can vary from one community to another, depending on local agricultural practices and lunar calendar events.

Celebrations and Activities

The Zhangrou Daike Festival includes a variety of activities that emphasize community, tradition, and spirituality, such as:

1. Ritual Offerings: The festival often begins with ritual offerings to ancestors and local deities. Families prepare dishes, especially steamed meat, which is considered a symbol of abundance and blessing. These offerings are usually made at family altars or community gathering spots.
2. Traditional Foods: Food plays a central role in the Zhangrou Daike Festival. The highlight is typically the preparation and sharing of Zhangrou, which is often made with pork or other meats, seasoned and steamed with herbs and vegetables. This communal meal fosters unity and cooperation among families and neighbors.
3. Cultural Performances: Music and dance are integral to the celebrations. Participants often engage in traditional Yao dances, accompanied by folk songs and instruments. These performances serve to entertain and to pass down cultural narratives to younger generations.
4. Games and Competitions: Various traditional games and competitions are held, promoting friendly rivalry and community spirit. Activities may include sporting contests, such as tug-of-war or relay races, encouraging active participation from all age groups.
5. Social Gatherings: The festival serves as a time for socializing and strengthening community bonds. Friends and families gather, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company, which is an essential aspect of the festival’s spirit.
6. Cultural Ceremonies: Additional ceremonial activities may include prayers for future blessings, health, and prosperity. These rituals highlight the Yao people’s respect for their ancestors and their connection to nature.

Cultural Significance

The Zhangrou Daike Festival holds deep cultural significance for the Yao ethnic minority. It encapsulates themes of gratitude, community, and agricultural celebration. The festival reinforces social relationships while preserving traditional practices, serving as a medium to pass down cultural knowledge and values from one generation to the next.

In summary, the Zhangrou Daike Festival is a vibrant celebration of the Yao ethnic minority, showcasing their rich cultural heritage, communal values, and agricultural practices. Through rituals, feasts, and communal activities, this festival fosters unity, gratitude, and cultural pride, making it an essential part of the Yao people’s identity.

Overview

• Chinese Name: 瑶族赶鸟节
• English Name: Ganniao Festival of Yao Ethnic Minority

The Ganniao Festival, also known as the “Gannian Festival” or “Ganniao Celebration,” is a significant traditional event among the Yao ethnic minority in China, particularly celebrated in regions such as Guangxi, Hunan, and Yunnan. This festival is deeply rooted in the agricultural calendar and cultural practices of the Yao people, serving as an important occasion for community bonding and cultural expression.

Historical Background

The Ganniao Festival is traditionally associated with the end of the agricultural year, marking a time for the Yao communities to celebrate the harvest and express gratitude for the bountiful yields. The name “Ganniao” can be translated to mean “Harvest Festival,” highlighting its agricultural significance. This festival also encompasses aspects of ancestor worship, where families honor their ancestors and seek blessings for the upcoming year.

Timing

The Ganniao Festival is typically celebrated during the lunar calendar’s late autumn or early winter, coinciding with the conclusion of the harvest season. The specific timing can vary from one community to another, depending on local customs and agricultural cycles.

Celebrations and Activities

The Ganniao Festival features various activities that emphasize community, culture, and spirituality. Some of the key elements include:

1. Ritual Offerings: The festival begins with families preparing offerings for their ancestors. Common offerings include traditional foods such as rice, meat, and fruits, which are presented at ancestral altars or community shrines as a sign of respect and gratitude.
2. Feasting and Sharing: Central to the Ganniao Festival is the communal feast where families and friends gather to enjoy traditional dishes. Foods prepared for the occasion often include special recipes that are passed down through generations, emphasizing communal sharing and togetherness.
3. Cultural Performances: Music and dance are important components of the festival. Participants engage in traditional Yao dances, often wearing colorful ethnic attire. These performances are accompanied by folk songs, drumming, and the use of traditional instruments, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Yao people.
4. Games and Competitions: Traditional games and sports are organized as part of the festivities. Activities such as tug-of-war, races, and skill competitions encourage participation from all ages and promote a spirit of fun and camaraderie within the community.
5. Social Gatherings: The Ganniao Festival serves as a vital social occasion for Yao communities. It provides an opportunity for families and friends to come together, strengthen ties, share stories, and celebrate their cultural identity.
6. Prayer and Blessings: Groups may gather for ceremonies to pray for peace, health, and prosperity in the coming year. These spiritual observances reinforce the community’s connection to their ancestors and cultural beliefs.

Cultural Significance

The Ganniao Festival holds immense cultural significance for the Yao ethnic minority. It symbolizes gratitude for the harvest, marks the transition from one agricultural cycle to another, and fosters unity within the community. The festival serves as a platform for the Yao people to express their cultural identity, preserve traditional customs, and pass down their heritage to future generations.

In summary, the Ganniao Festival is a vibrant celebration of the Yao ethnic minority, encompassing agricultural rituals, cultural performances, communal feasting, and social bonding. Through its various activities, the festival highlights the Yao people’s rich traditions, reinforcing their sense of community and identity.

Overview

• Chinese Name: 瑶族姑娘街
• English Name: Guniangjie (Girls Street) Festival of Yao Ethnic Minority

The Guniangjie (Girls Street) Festival is a unique and vibrant celebration among the Yao ethnic minority in China, particularly prominent in certain regions like Guangxi. This festival is primarily focused on young women and their role in the community, incorporating elements of cultural expression, social interaction, and traditional customs.

Historical Background

The Guniangjie Festival, often referred to as the “Girls Street Festival,” is steeped in local folklore and traditions. It serves as a celebration of youth, femininity, and the coming-of-age of young women in Yao society. While the exact origins of the festival may vary across different Yao communities, it is generally seen as a time to honor women and the cultural values they represent.

Timing

The Guniangjie Festival is typically celebrated during the lunar calendar’s spring, often coinciding with the blooming of flowers. The specific date can vary from year to year, depending on local customs and lunar calendar cycles.

Celebrations and Activities

The Guniangjie Festival includes a variety of activities that emphasize community, culture, and the celebration of women. Key elements of the festival include:

1. Gathering of Young Women: The festival acts as a social event for young women in the community, where they get together to celebrate their youth, make new friends, and forge social connections. It is an occasion for young women to showcase their skills, beauty, and cultural knowledge.
2. Traditional Attire: During the festival, participants often wear traditional Yao attire, which is colorful and intricately designed. This not only highlights their cultural identity but also adds to the festive atmosphere.
3. Cultural Performances: Various performances take place, including traditional songs, dances, and storytelling. Young women often perform folkloric dances that tell stories of love, nature, and Yao mythology, enriching the cultural experience of the festival.
4. Games and Competitions: The Guniangjie Festival features traditional games and competitions aimed at fostering friendly interaction. Activities may include team games, skill contests, and even beauty contests, where young women can showcase their talents and creativity.
5. Rituals and Prayers: There are often traditional rituals included in the celebrations, where participants may offer prayers for health, fertility, and prosperity. These spiritual elements reflect the community’s connection to their cultural beliefs and the significance of women in Yao society.
6. Community Gatherings: The festival serves as a vital opportunity for communities to come together, strengthening social ties. Families and friends often gather to enjoy the festive atmosphere, share meals, and celebrate together.

Cultural Significance

The Guniangjie Festival holds significant cultural importance for the Yao ethnic minority. It celebrates femininity, youth, and the important roles women play within their communities. The festival reinforces cultural values, traditions, and social connections, passing these down to future generations.

In summary, the Guniangjie Festival is a lively celebration focused on the young women of the Yao ethnic minority, marked by traditional performances, games, social gatherings, and cultural expressions. This festival not only honors the contributions of women to Yao culture but also serves as a platform for nurturing community bonds and celebrating the unique identity of the Yao people.

Overview

Chinese Name: 瑶族祝著节
English Name: Zhuzhu Festival of Yao Ethnic Minority

The Zhuzhu Festival, also known as the “Zhuzhujie,” is an important traditional celebration among the Yao ethnic minority in China, specifically celebrated in regions such as Guangxi and Hunan. This festival holds great cultural significance and is characterized by a range of activities that showcase the Yao people’s rich heritage, agricultural life, and community bonds.

Historical Background

The Zhuzhu Festival is primarily connected to the agricultural calendar and is celebrated to give thanks for the harvest and seek blessings for future crops. The term “Zhuzhu” can be translated as “to invite or summon,” reflecting the festival’s purpose of inviting good luck and prosperity for the coming year. The origins of the festival are rooted in local agricultural practices and folk traditions, and it often involves rituals and customs meant to ensure a bountiful harvest.

Timing

The Zhuzhu Festival typically occurs during the autumn season, close to the time when crops are harvested. The specific timing may vary by region and according to the lunar calendar.

Celebrations and Activities

The Zhuzhu Festival includes various activities that emphasize community spirit, cultural traditions, and agricultural practices. Some of the key elements of the festival are:

1. Ritual Offerings: The festival usually begins with rituals where offerings are made to deities, ancestors, and the spirits of nature. Farmers prepare sacrifices of rice, vegetables, and livestock to express gratitude for the harvest and seek blessings for future agricultural success.
2. Feasting and Sharing: Central to the Zhuzhu Festival is the communal feast, where families and community members come together to enjoy traditional dishes. Dishes prepared usually feature locally sourced ingredients, and the emphasis is on sharing and celebrating the abundance of the harvest.
3. Traditional Music and Dance: Cultural performances play a significant role in the festivities. Participants often engage in traditional Yao music and dance, showcasing their rich cultural heritage. Folk songs and dances that tell stories of Yao life, nature, and history are common during the festival.
4. Games and Competitions: Various games and competitions are organized as part of the celebration. These activities can include contests of skill, strength, and teamwork, fostering a sense of camaraderie and friendly competition among community members.
5. Cultural Exhibitions: The festival may also feature exhibitions of traditional crafts, showcasing the artistic skills and creativity of the Yao people. This can include textile weaving, embroidery, and other forms of handicraft that reflect Yao culture.
6. Social Bonding: The Zhuzhu Festival serves as an important social occasion for the Yao ethnic community. It provides a platform for families, friends, and neighbors to come together, celebrate, and strengthen their social ties.

Cultural Significance

The Zhuzhu Festival embodies the Yao ethnic minority’s agricultural practices, cultural identity, and community values. It reinforces the importance of gratitude for nature’s bounty while also fostering social cohesion among community members. By preserving and celebrating their traditions during this festival, the Yao people ensure the continuation of their cultural heritage for future generations.

In summary, the Zhuzhu Festival is a lively and culturally rich celebration for the Yao ethnic minority, marked by rituals of thanksgiving, communal feasting, traditional performances, and communal games. It highlights the Yao people’s deep connection to their agricultural roots and their vibrant cultural traditions.

Overview

• Chinese Name: 瑶族春节
• English Name: Spring Festival of Yao Ethnic Minority

The Spring Festival, celebrated by the Yao ethnic minority, is a vibrant and significant event marking the Lunar New Year. Like many other ethnic groups in China, the Yao people engage in their unique traditions and customs during this festive period, blending their cultural heritage with the broader celebrations associated with the Lunar New Year.

Historical Background

The Spring Festival among the Yao people has deep roots in their agricultural lifestyle and is interwoven with ancient customs that emphasize renewal, family bonds, and gratitude for the harvest. It symbolizes the beginning of a new year, a time for reflection, festivities, and rituals to welcome prosperity and good fortune.

Timing

The Yao Spring Festival is celebrated on the same day as the Lunar New Year, which usually falls between late January and mid-February. The festivities can last several days, often continuing until the Lantern Festival, which occurs 15 days after the Chinese New Year.

Celebrations and Activities

The Spring Festival for the Yao ethnic minority includes a range of activities that highlight their cultural identity, family values, and connection to nature. Key elements of the celebration include:

1. Family Reunions: The Spring Festival is a time for family gatherings. Many Yao people return to their ancestral homes to celebrate with loved ones. It is an essential occasion for honoring ancestors and maintaining family ties.
2. New Year Preparations: In the days leading up to the festival, families engage in thorough cleaning of their homes to sweep away bad luck and make way for good fortune. This also includes decorating homes with traditional symbols of prosperity, such as red paper cuttings and couplets.
3. Ritual Offerings: Families prepare offerings and conduct rituals to honor ancestors and deities. This often includes food, incense, and other symbolic items arranged on altars. Such rituals express gratitude for the previous year’s blessings and seek protection and prosperity for the year ahead.
4. Feasting and Traditional Foods: Food plays a central role in the Spring Festival celebrations. Families prepare a variety of traditional dishes, often featuring local ingredients. Special foods might include rice dumplings, meat dishes, and various vegetables, each symbolizing abundance and good luck.
5. Cultural Performances: During the Spring Festival, the Yao people engage in traditional music and dance performances to bring joy and festivity to the celebrations. Vibrant costumes, folk songs, and lively dances are central to the cultural expressions of the festival.
6. Firecrackers and Festive Activities: To ward off evil spirits and bring in good luck, firecrackers are often set off during the celebration. Additionally, various games and activities may be organized within the community, promoting social cohesion and enjoyment.
7. Visiting Neighbors and Friends: The Spring Festival is also a time for visiting neighbors and friends, exchanging good wishes, and sharing food. This practice reinforces community bonds and celebrates collective harmony and joy.

Cultural Significance

The Spring Festival among the Yao people is not only a time for celebration but also serves as a meaningful expression of their cultural identity, values, and social connections. It emphasizes the importance of family, respect for ancestors, and community togetherness while incorporating elements of Yao traditions and customs.

In summary, the Spring Festival of the Yao ethnic minority is a vibrant celebration that combines family reunions, traditional rituals, festive food, cultural performances, and community engagement. It showcases the Yao people’s rich heritage and their deep-rooted beliefs in renewal, prosperity, and kinship as they welcome the new year.

Chinese Name: 瑶族盘王节
English Name: Panwang Festival of Yao Ethnic Minority

The Panwang Festival (盘王节) is the grandest festival of Yao ethic group, who has a large population (2.853 million in 2010), and mainly settle in South China’s Hunan province, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, and Guangdong province. Outgrowing its past as a sacrificial ceremony engaged in worshiping ancestral, today’s Panwang Festival has developed into a comprehensive carnival among Yao people of all ages – they dress in traditional festival clothes, and show distinctive Yao performances by singing and dancing.

The origin of Panwang Festival

This over 1,700-year-old festival is celebrated on the sixteenth day of the tenth lunar month (usually mid- to late November) to memorize Yao people’s mythological ancestor Pan Hu (also Panwang or King Pan). According to legend, in the far ancient time, a group of Yao ethnic people traveled far away across the sea by boat, but unfortunately encountered a storm. The boat with people drifted on the sea for 49 days and was about to destruct. At about that time, one of the Yao people came to the bow of the boat and prayed to their ancestor Panwang for their safety. After making the wish, the calm returned on the sea immediately. And the boat reached shore very soon, saving the Yao people. It was just on Panwang’s birthday, the sixteenth day of the tenth lunar month. So the rescued Yao people prepare the banquet, singing and dancing, to celebrate their new life, as well as Panwang’s birthday.

The ancestral worship and ritual

The ritual is to worship and memorize Panwang King, so it obeys a fixed procedure strictly, and will be presided over by four priests and four assistants. An altar will be set firstly, followed by hanging the portraits of Panwang and other minor gods, such as Local Guardian Goodness and God of Farm. Then, the solemn worship gets into full swing. A worshiper shoots into the sky for three times and displays firecrackers. The elders prepare and present the sacrificial offerings including pig heads, glutinous rice cakes, chicken and rice wine to the gods devoutly. Then all participants stand in rows, and lower their heads to pray. Panwang worship ritual will be accompanied by distinctive Yao music, played by Long Drum and a zurna band.

The activities and performances

Every year, Panwang Festival is celebrated joyously by each Yao family or by the same clan of several villages together. It lasts from three days to seven days, with mysterious, sacred rituals, and many eye-catching traditional performances and fun-filled activities. During the festival, Yao people, men and women, the old and the young, all dress in their extremely diversified custom attires, and prepare the most luxurious banquets based on fresh local ingredients. They pay tribute to their ancestor Panwang and celebrate the harvest, in forms of recitals, libation, incense, songs, and dances.

The first and foremost thing of the celebration is to offer sacrifice to Panwang – by singing the Chorus of Panwang King, and performing the over 2000-year-old Long Drum Dance, Yellow-land Drum Dance, Umbrella Dance and Copper Drum Dance. The Chorus of Panwang King is an epic of Panwang and a collection of Yao poetry, with rich content involved in working, migrating, farming, planting, hunting, legends, romance, marriage, etc.

In many Yao villages, there are also exhibition of calligraphy and paintings, food festival, unique entertainments of firecracker display and Da Hua Gun (Stick Spinning), local operas or acrobatics performed by troupes, various sport competitions and busy trade markets. The large-scale singing fair is for making new friends and a romantic occasion for dating.

The Panwang Festival promises to be fun for all travelers, especially China ethnic culture fans.

Overview 

Chinese Name: 马关县壮族开秧门与关秧门
English Name: Kaiyangmen Festival and Guanyangmen Festival of Zhuang Ethnic Minority

The Kaiyangmen Festival and Guanyangmen Festival are significant traditional celebrations among the Zhuang ethnic minority in China, particularly in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. These festivals reflect the rich cultural heritage and social customs of the Zhuang people, showcasing their agricultural lifestyle, community bonding, and spiritual beliefs.

Kaiyangmen Festival

1. Overview: The Kaiyangmen Festival, also known as the “Spring Festival of the Zhuang,” is celebrated to mark the beginning of the agricultural year. It is characterized by various rituals and activities aimed at inviting good fortune, ensuring a successful harvest, and fostering community cooperation.

2. Timing: The festival generally takes place in late spring or early summer, aligning with the agricultural calendar when farming activities begin to ramp up.

3. Key Activities:

• Ritual Offerings: During the Kaiyangmen Festival, Zhuang people perform rituals by setting up altars and making offerings to deities and ancestors. These offerings often include rice, fruits, and livestock, reflecting gratitude for past blessings and hope for future prosperity.
• Cultural Performances: The festival features traditional music and dance performances, showcasing Zhuang folk songs, dances, and art forms. These performances help to preserve the cultural identity and express the community’s heritage.
• Folk Games: Community games are often held during the festival, including traditional sports and competitions, which promote teamwork and camaraderie among participants.
• Feasting and Socializing: Families and community members gather to share meals, often consisting of traditional Zhuang dishes. This reinforces social bonds and celebrates the unity of the community.

Guanyangmen Festival

1. Overview: The Guanyangmen Festival, also known as the “Tasting of New Rice Festival,” is another important celebration for the Zhuang people that marks the harvest season. It is an occasion to celebrate the successful gathering of crops and to appreciate the blessings of nature.

2. Timing: The Guanyangmen Festival is typically held in late autumn, shortly after the rice harvest. The timing can vary based on local agricultural conditions.

3. Key Activities:

• Harvest Celebrations: Central to the Guanyangmen Festival is the celebration of the rice harvest. Communities come together to give thanks for the bountiful harvest and engage in activities to highlight the importance of rice in their culture.
• Cooking and Sharing New Rice: A significant tradition during the festival is cooking and sharing the first batch of new rice. This symbolizes abundance and gratitude, and families prepare various dishes to showcase their culinary skills.
• Traditional Music and Dance: Much like the Kaiyangmen Festival, cultural performances play a vital role in the Guanyangmen Festival. Zhuang folk dances and songs are performed, often involving vibrant costumes and lively rhythms.
• Community Bonding: Similar to other Zhuang festivals, Guanyangmen emphasizes community participation, with activities designed to strengthen social ties and promote a sense of unity and belonging.

Cultural Significance

Both the Kaiyangmen and Guanyangmen Festivals reflect the agricultural roots and cultural identity of the Zhuang ethnic minority. They highlight themes of gratitude, community spirit, and the importance of nature in the Zhuang way of life. These festivals provide opportunities for the Zhuang people to reconnect with their heritage, reinforce social bonds, and ensure the continuation of their vibrant cultural practices.

In summary, the Kaiyangmen and Guanyangmen Festivals are vital and cherished celebrations of the Zhuang ethnic minority, each with its unique activities and cultural significance, showcasing the community’s deep connection to agriculture, tradition, and one another.

Geographical Location

Masa Village (马洒村) is located in northern Mabai Town (马白镇), Maguan County (马关县), Wenshan Prefecture (文山州), Yunnan Province (云南省). Approximately 9 km from Maguan County (马关县) and 7 km from Mabai Town (马白镇) government seat, the village is surrounded by mountains and rivers with towering ancient trees, boasting beautiful natural scenery.

Cultural History

Masa Village (马洒村) is a Zhuang ethnic settlement with over 400 years of history, established during the late Ming and early Qing dynasties by ancestors of the Gao (高), Wang (王), Tian (田), and Li (李) families. The name “Masa” (马洒) originates from the local Zhuang people’s expertise in the Paper Horse Dance (纸马舞), meaning “paper horse” in Zhuang language. In 2009, the Masa Zhuang Traditional Culture Reserve (马洒壮族传统文化保护区) was included in Yunnan Province’s second batch of intangible cultural heritage lists.

Folk Customs

Masa Village (马洒村) preserves rich Zhuang ethnic traditions including:

• Traditional Festivals: Dragon Worship Festival (祭龙节), Colorful Rice Festival (花饭节), Thunder God Worship (祭雷神), and New Crop Tasting Festival (尝新节).
• Traditional Dances: Paper Horse Dance (纸马舞) and Handkerchief Dance (手巾舞).
• Traditional Crafts: Silverware making, embroidery, and Nong Ancient Music (侬人古乐).
• Religious Beliefs: The village features Shennong Temple (神农殿), Guanyin Temple (观音庙), and Dragon King Temple (龙王庙), reflecting the integration of Zhuang and Han cultures.

Weather & Best Time to Visit

At an elevation of 1,370 meters, Masa Village (马洒村) enjoys a mild climate with an annual average temperature of 18°C and four distinct seasons. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather and beautiful natural landscapes for visitors.

Recommended Attractions, Visiting Time & Tickets

Masa Traditional Village (马洒村传统村落): Features well-preserved Zhuang architecture including stilt houses (杆栏式吊脚楼), Shennong Temple (神农殿), and Guanyin Temple (观音庙). Recommended visit: 2-3 hours. Free admission.
Divine Frog Square (神蛙广场): Hosts weekly Saturday bonfire parties with the Zhuang “Cosmic Divine Frog” (乾坤神蛙) pattern symbolizing blessings. Recommended visit: 1 hour. Free admission.
Bronze Drum Square (铜鼓广场): A key venue for Zhuang cultural activities featuring traditional dances and music. Recommended visit: 1 hour. Free admission.
Village History Museum (村史馆): Displays Masa’s history and traditional crafts like Nong Ancient Music (侬人古乐) and embroidery. Recommended visit: 1 hour. Free admission.

Transportation

Public Transport: Take a bus from Maguan County (马关县) to Mabai Town (马白镇) (~15 minutes), then transfer to a rural bus or hire a vehicle to Masa Village (马洒村).
Self-Driving: Drive ~9 km (~15 minutes) from Maguan County (马关县) via county roads.

Food

Local specialties include glutinous rice cakes (糯米粑), dalian cakes (褡裢粑), colorful rice (花米饭), cold chicken (凉鸡), liangwang (凉旺), roasted meat shreds (烤肉丝), and chicken san (炒鸡糁). Local barbecue is also recommended.

Shopping

Purchase agricultural products like crispy plums (香脆李), soft-seed pomegranates (软籽石榴), and kiwifruit (猕猴桃), or Zhuang handicrafts like embroidery and silver ornaments.

Accommodation

Homestays in Masa Village (马洒村) cost ~50-100 RMB/night. For more comfort, hotels in Maguan County (马关县) are available.

Travel Tips

• Respect local customs, especially in traditional villages and during cultural activities.
• Protect the environment and avoid littering.
• Check weather and safety precautions for outdoor activities.

Itinerary Suggestions

Day 1: Travel from Maguan County (马关县) to Masa Village (马洒村); visit traditional village, Divine Frog Square (神蛙广场), Bronze Drum Square (铜鼓广场), and Village History Museum (村史馆). Overnight at homestay.
Day 2: Continue exploring village culture and nature. Return to Maguan County (马关县) in the afternoon.

Masa Village (马洒村) is a charming traditional settlement offering both stunning landscapes and rich ethnic culture. Whether strolling through ancient alleys or enjoying Zhuang dances, visitors will be immersed in authentic ethnic charm. May you have an unforgettable journey.

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