Eryueer (February 2th) Festival of Buyi Ethnic Minority

Overview of The Festival

• Chinese Name: 布依族二月二节
• English Name: Eryueer (February 2th) Festival of Buyi Ethnic Minority

The Eryueer Festival, celebrated on the second day of the second lunar month, is a traditional festival of the Buyi ethnic minority in China, primarily located in the Guizhou Province. This festival, which is also referred to as the "Dragon Head Raising Festival," is rich in cultural significance and is associated with agricultural traditions, marking the beginning of spring and the farming season.

Eryueer Festival is not only a time for celebrating the arrival of spring and the agricultural season but also a vital occasion for the Buyi people to reinforce their cultural identity and maintain community bonds. Through various customs and rituals, the festival serves as a reminder of their heritage and connection to nature, reflecting the values and traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Cultural Significance

The Eryueer Festival is rooted in the agrarian lifestyle of the Buyi people, symbolizing the awakening of the earth and the start of agricultural activities. It is a time for communities to come together, celebrate, and express gratitude for nature's blessings. The date, February 2nd, is believed to be when the dragon, a crucial symbol in Chinese culture representing strength and good fortune, awakens and brings rain, essential for planting and nurturing crops.

Customs and Activities

During the Eryueer Festival, the Buyi people engage in various customs and activities that reflect their unique cultural heritage:

1. Hair Cutting Ceremony: Traditionally, many Buyi people use this festival as an opportunity to cut their hair. It is customary for people, especially young men, to have their hair cut to signify growth and renewal.
2. Sacrifices and Offerings: People will offer sacrifices and food to their ancestors and local deities, thanking them for past blessings and praying for a good harvest in the coming year. This can include rice, fruits, and traditional dishes.
3. Cooking and Festive Foods: The festival features special foods, with families preparing a variety of dishes. One popular dish is the “dragon head” dumpling (often shaped like a dragon), which is made from glutinous rice flour and symbolizes a good harvest.
4. Community Gatherings: The Eryueer Festival is also a time for social interaction. People gather to partake in singing, dancing, and other cultural performances. Traditional music plays a significant role in the celebrations, showcasing the rich heritage of the Buyi people.
5. Ceremonial Activities: Some areas may host dragon dances or other ceremonies that honor agricultural deities, invoking their protection and blessings for the upcoming farming season.