Eid al-Fitr Festival of Hui Ethnic People in Weishan County, Dali

Introduction of the Festival

• Chinese Name:大理巍山回族开斋节
• English Name: Eid al-Fitr Festival of Hui Ethnic People in Weishan County, Dali
• Location: Weishan County, Dali

In Weishan, the Hui ethnic people refer to it as "Da'er De," which is held on the third day of the Islamic calendar month of Shawwal, around the beginning of the month in the Islamic lunar calendar. The date is calculated based on a conversion between the Gregorian and Islamic calendars, changing every three years, while it typically coincides with the third day of the Chinese lunar calendar. This large-scale celebration marks the end of Ramadan, when families across the region come together to celebrate with great enthusiasm. On this day, every household is filled with warmth, and families celebrate joyously, dressed in festive attire that is colorful and varied. The mosques are filled with joy and excitement.

Among the Weishan Hui, there is a saying, "Travel a thousand miles to celebrate Da'er De," indicating that regardless of where people are located, they return home to celebrate the festival with their fellow villagers. As soon as the sun rises in the morning, men and women of all ages make their way to the mosque, where the men participate in the grand ceremonies. These ceremonies are solemn and elaborately conducted, filled with a joyful yet respectful atmosphere.

After the ceremonies, men visit the graves on the mountain in family groups to pay respects at the graves of their ancestors. Once the grave visits are complete, they gather together to greet each other. In the mosque, after prayers, students will visit their teachers, imams, and the homes of those who hosted their studies, known as "Haiwan De," to celebrate the festival. Graduates returning from the mosque will also visit with their in-laws and daughters to celebrate.

The festival activities are diverse, including reciting the Quran, ceremonies, grave visits, greetings, and celebrating in the homes of Haiwan De and returning to their maternal homes to celebrate. In Weishan, the activity of returning to one’s maternal home to celebrate is particularly vibrant. On the day of Eid al-Fitr, the roads in the Yongjianshui Hui village of Weishan are busy with people and traffic, creating a festive atmosphere that is especially joyous.

The Local Activities: 

1. Preparations and Decorations: In the days leading up to Eid al-Fitr, families prepare by cleaning their homes and decorating them. Special meals and sweets are often prepared in anticipation of the celebrations.
2. Attending the Mosque: On the morning of Eid, families gather at the mosque to participate in the special prayer service. This ceremony is an important community event where men, women, and children come together to pray and listen to sermons.
3. Dressing in Festive Attire: People typically wear their best traditional clothing for the occasion, which is often colorful and ornate. This adds to the celebratory atmosphere of the festival.
4. Communal Feasting: After the prayers, it is common for families to gather for a festive meal. This includes a variety of dishes, symbolizing gratitude and abundance. The meals are often shared with friends and extended family.
5. Grave Visits (You Fen): Following the prayers, men often visit the graves of their ancestors in a traditional practice of paying respects. This is a time to honor those who have passed away and to seek blessings for the family.
6. Visiting Family and Friends: The festival is characterized by visiting relatives and friends. This includes exchanging greetings, sharing food, and celebrating together. Families might also visit the homes of their maternal relatives, which is a significant tradition.
7. Cultural Activities: Various cultural events may take place as part of the festivities. This can include recitations of the Quran, music, dance, and communal gatherings.
8. Charity and Giving: Eid al-Fitr emphasizes charity, and many families will give gifts or donations to the less fortunate, reinforcing the spirit of community and generosity.
9. Celebrating with Children: Special attention is given to children during the festival, with gifts and treats often distributed, helping reinforce the festive atmosphere.