Chinese Name:洱源县海西海歌会
English Name: Haixihai Folk Song Festival of Bai Ethnic Minority in Eryuan County, Dali

西海在洱源县牛街乡龙门坝，离县城24公里，为断陷溶蚀洼地形成的天然淡水湖泊。南海北坝，群山环抱，“四面为城”，明清时期是鹤庆府的八大名景之一。湖泊面积2.6平方公里，南北长3.6公里，东西最大宽1.5公里，湖岸线长10公里，平均水深10米，最大水深16米，平均水温13度，总库容2227万立方米，下游与茈碧湖、凤羽河同注入弥直河而流人洱海。海西海三面临山，山中竹树成林，一面连坝，湖中有”海映山奇观”。

每年农历六月二十五，是一年一度的传统海西海歌会，前来赴会的络绎不绝，青年男女泛舟海西海，在三弦的伴奏下，放开嗓子唱情歌，摘菱角，采莲花，被称为是“三弦传情歌为媒，喜结良缘海西海”。

Chinese Name:洱源县茈碧湖歌会/龙王会/海灯会
English Name: Cibihu Folk Song Festival of Bai Ethnic Minority in Eryuan County, Dali
http://paper.yunnan.cn/html/20071122/news_96_202582.html

Chinese Name:大理白族本主节
English Name: Benzhu Worship Festival of Bai Ethnic Minority in Dali

Basic Introduction

• Chinese Name:剑川县石宝山歌会
• English Name: Shibaoshan Folk Song Festival of Bai Ethnic Minority in Jianchuan County, Dali
• Location: Jianchuan County, Dali

According to historical records, the Shibaoshan Folk Song Festival dates back to more than 1,000 years ago. The “mountain flower style”, or the Bai antiphonal singing style, can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty (618–907). During the Folk Song Festival, the Bai people from Dali, Eryuan, Lijiang and Lanping would come in continuous crowds. On the road from the county seat to the Shibaoshan Mountain, men and women of all ages sang love songs one after another. When they were tired at night, thousands of men and women would sleep in the temples. That was the continuity of the early “group marriage” system. The Folk Song Festival is the best time for the Bai youths to pursue love.

In 2008, the Shibaoshan Folk Song Festival, as a collective exhibition of the Bai customs, was inscribed on the Second National Intangible Cultural Heritage List. The songs that are popular during the festival have been included in the catalogue of international famous folk songs. The Bai antiphonal singing style, commonly known as the “Bai tune” or the “Bai singing”, has been sung in Southwest China’s border regions for centuries and is rich in content. “The Folk Song Festival, which combines vocal music and instrumental music and prays for good fortune while making friends with songs and other activities, is the cradle of the Bai folk songs and the base for their development and spread. It has provided valuable information for the studies of arts, ethnology, anthropology, history, archaeology and aesthetics.” Professor Zhang Yaqin of College of Art and Design, Yunnan University was quoted as saying.

Local Activities

1. Folk Song Performances: Central to the festival are performances of traditional Bai folk songs. Local singers and communities gather to showcase their unique vocal styles and musical instruments, creating a lively atmosphere.
2. Dancing: Traditional Bai dances accompany the music, with performers often dressed in colorful costumes. These dances celebrate Bai culture and can range from group performances to solo displays.
3. Cultural Exhibitions: The festival typically includes exhibitions that highlight Bai art, crafts, and history. Visitors can explore traditional handicrafts, textiles, and other cultural artifacts.
4. Food and Cuisine: Local food stalls and vendors offer a taste of Bai cuisine, allowing attendees to sample traditional dishes. This is a great opportunity to experience the flavors of the region.
5. Competitions: Various competitions, including singing contests, dance competitions, and even traditional games, may be held, encouraging participation from the community and showcasing talent.
6. Workshops: Some festivals include workshops where attendees can learn about Bai musical instruments, folk song techniques, or traditional dance moves.
7. Community Gatherings: The festival serves as a communal event where locals come together to celebrate their identity, share stories, and strengthen community bonds.
8. Outdoor Activities: Given the scenic backdrop of Shibaoshan, outdoor activities such as hiking, cultural tours, and nature exploration are popular among visitors.

Shrine for the Communal GodsThe worship of the communal gods is a sort of religion peculiar to the Bai nationality. In the Bai language, the communal gods are also named as “Wuzeng,” or “Laogu (ancestors),” or “Laotai (ancestress).” In some places, there are also names like “Wuzengni,” “Zengni” and “Dongbo,” which have some meaning of ancestor or master. However, their worship is not simply ancestry worship, but is generally regarded as a form of worship that derives from the communal gods worship and farming sacrifice in primitive societies. It has already been formed in the Nanzhao period and had become a religion of great importance in both the Nanzhao and the Dali period for the Bai people. After hundreds of years of further development, the number of the communal gods has increased a lot. With richer cultural ingredients, the worship of the communal gods has come into its present form.

To the Bai people, the communal gods perform different social functions: they protect the local village, take charge of the destiny of the local people, maintain people’s happiness and plentiful harvests, and keep the health and thriving of domestic animal. In every Bai village, there are one or more shrines for their communal gods, whose clay or wooden figures are worshipped there. According to a census in 1990, there are altogether 986 shrines in Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture.

The worship of the communal gods is a sort of polytheism. Every village has its own communal gods; sometimes however, several or even tens of villages share a common communal god. The communal gods are in charge of different domains: some are in charge the business of “the infernal world,” some of the human world, some of the army of “the infernal world,” some of illnesses and diseases, some of domestic animals, and so on so forth. The communal gods can be divided into the following types:

Natural objects such as stone, tree blotch, water buffalo, monkey, and white camel;

Deities such as the god of mountains, the god of harvest, the god of hunting, the dragon king, and the god of the sun;
Heroes such as Du Chaoxuan, Duan Chicheng and Madam Bai Jie;

Characters in folk legend such as the Dali Nanmen communal god;

Kings and princes, generals and ministers, and ancestors such as Nanzhao, the King Nuluo and the senior general Ge Luofeng of Dali kingdom;

People of other nationalities such as Zheng Hui and Du Guangting;

Gods of Buddhism and Taoism, such as Kwan-yin, Guan Yu, and Li Jing.

As a matter of fact, every communal god has his own title and oral or written legend stories.

The communal gods worship of the Bai people has two basic characteristics:

First, it is a sort of polytheism centered on the communal god. The communal god is the main subject of worship and other subsidiary gods as less important subjects. The subsidiary gods also have their special religious functions. For instance, the Offspring-offering Mother gives sons and heirs to a family; the god of fortune is in charge of wealth; and the dragon king is responsible for rainfalls. The powers of subsidiary gods are effective supplementary to those of the main god. This combination meets the spiritual needs of the Bai people and shows their practical motives of religious worship.

The second feature is that most of the worshipped gods are ancestors, or those who have done good to the people or promoted the development of their national society, economy and culture, or those who are set as moral examples.

The worship of the communal gods has the basic characteristics of a religion and the rudiments of most religious organization. There are many manifestations. First, nearly all people of the Bai ethnic group believe in some communal gods, and very few do not. Second, every village has its fixed shrines and figures of gods for worship. The shrines are often independent buildings, which are grand in size and splendid in style. Third, there are people or organizations that are specially assigned to the supervision of public worship rituals. Fourth, beside frequent individual worship rituals, every year there are two temple fairs with a set of fixed rituals: one in Spring Festival to welcome or see off the communal god, the other to celebrate the birthday of the god, or the day of his or her passing away. Fifth, there are worship rituals, the Volume of The communal Gods, and a set of commandments and moral principles, such as loyalty to the nation, finial piety, respect for the old and affection for the young, hardworking and no misdoing.

In the two important worship ceremonies, every villager, man or woman, old or young, is dressed up. They kill swine and chicken, play dragon and lion rituals, burn incense and paper, and light firecrackers, to worship of the communal god, and bid him to drive away the ghosts and the evil, eliminate disasters, and maintain the peace of the country and the people.

Intertwined with their politics, history, philosophy, production, daily life, culture and art, and customs, the worship of the communal gods is deeply rooted in thoughts and consciousness of the Bai people. It has already become a colorful culture form peculiar to the Bai people.

Chinese Name:大理蝴蝶会
English Name: Butterfly Festival of Bai Ethnic Minority in Dali City

The Butterfly Festival, a vibrant folk tradition of the Bai ethnic group, takes place annually in the Dali region of Yunnan, China. Held just before the fifteenth day of the fourth lunar month, this festival celebrates the natural beauty of butterflies that gather around Butterfly Spring, located at the foot of Yunlong Peak in the Cangshan Mountains. The festival features an array of colorful butterflies, ranging from palm-sized to coin-sized, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The event is marked by picnics, traditional Dongjing music, prayers for good weather and harvests, and a time for young people to express love and seek partners.

Natural Beauty and Festivities

In April, when flowers are in full bloom, thousands of butterflies congregate at Butterfly Spring. They cluster on tree branches and sometimes take to the sky in unison, creating a dynamic, three-dimensional landscape. This natural phenomenon draws locals and tourists alike to witness the mesmerizing display.

Legends Surrounding Butterfly Spring

The origins of Butterfly Spring are steeped in Bai folklore. According to legend, a fierce python terrorized the area by capturing young girls until a brave hunter, Du Chaoxuan, killed the creature and rescued the captives. However, the girls, moved by the hunter’s bravery, sacrificed themselves by jumping into the bottomless spring, followed by Du Chaoxuan out of regret. All three transformed into butterflies, giving birth to the endless butterfly gatherings that the festival celebrates today. The spring was renamed Butterfly Spring, and a temple was erected in their honor.

Origin of the Festival

The Butterfly Festival has been a joyful celebration of harmony between humans and nature for centuries. Over 360 years ago, the traveler Xu Xiake described the incredible sight of thousands of butterflies gathering around an ancient mimosa tree by the spring. Today, the tree still stands, surrounded by fragrant trees and vibrant flowers, making it a paradise for butterflies and bees.

Festival Activities

The Butterfly Festival at Butterfly Spring in Dali is celebrated with great enthusiasm. The festival, also known as Dali’s Valentine’s Day, draws large crowds with Bai cultural performances, Dongjing music, and Bai dances. Butterfly Spring, a 4A scenic spot, charges an entrance fee of 40 yuan, though locals can enter for 8 yuan on the day of the festival. The site also features exhibits of Bai intangible cultural heritage and the spring water flowing from the “Five Dragon Pool.”

Butterfly Spring Today

Butterfly Spring has long been a symbol of steadfast love, making it a popular tourist destination. However, in recent years, the experience at Butterfly Spring has changed. While the Butterfly Museum and Butterfly World were once must-see areas, they have become more commercialized, with fewer live butterflies on display. The Butterfly World, originally meant to showcase live butterflies and specimens, now mainly sells butterfly specimens. The spherical exhibition hall, labeled as “Butterfly Pavilion” on tickets, is actually called “Maze Butterfly Forest” and is filled with commercial exhibits, detracting from the original charm of the site.

Reflection

Years ago, Butterfly Spring offered a rich educational experience for children and adults alike. However, recent visits during the “Valentine’s Day” event revealed a decline in the overall experience, with the commercialization overshadowing the natural beauty that once made the Butterfly Spring a unique and memorable destination.

Chinese Name: 剑川县二月八太子庙会
English Name: Taizi Temple Fair of Bai Ethnic Minority in Jianchuan County, Dali
Date: 19 March (lunar 8 February)
Place: Jianchuan old town and Shaxi old town of Jianchuan County, Dali Prefecture
Activities include “parade” of the Taizi (prince) God to pray for local Bai ethnic people.

http://blog.sina.com.cn/s/blog_48bde5e70102vp5z.html

Chinese Name:大理白族三月街
English Name: March Street (Sanyuejie) Festival of Bai Ethnic Minority in Dali

The March Street Festival, known as Sanyuejie, is one of the most significant traditional celebrations of the Bai ethnic minority in Dali, Yunnan Province. This vibrant festival typically takes place on the 15th day of the third lunar month and lasts for several days, attracting both locals and tourists who come to experience the unique culture, customs, and festivities of the Bai people.

Overview

The March Street Festival is a time for the Bai community to celebrate the arrival of spring, pay homage to their ancestors, and strengthen community bonds. It is characterized by a variety of activities, including traditional music and dance performances, local food fairs, and various competitions that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Bai people.

During the festival, the streets of Dali are adorned with colorful decorations, and stalls selling local handicrafts, snacks, and traditional Bai clothing line the streets. The atmosphere is lively and filled with the sounds of music, laughter, and the aroma of delicious foods.

Key Activities

Traditional Performances

One of the highlights of the March Street Festival is the various performances that take place throughout the celebration. Dancers in traditional Bai attire perform folk dances, showcasing their vibrant culture. Instruments such as the “Erhu” (two-stringed fiddle), “Pipa” (Chinese lute), and drums accompany the performances, creating a festive atmosphere.

Cultural Exhibitions

The festival also features exhibitions of Bai handicrafts, including tie-dyeing, embroidery, and pottery. Local artisans display their skills, allowing visitors to see the intricate craftsmanship that characterizes Bai culture.

Culinary Delights

Food is an essential aspect of the March Street Festival. Vendors offer a wide range of traditional Bai dishes, including “Er Kuai” (rice cakes), “Dali yogurt,” and various meat and vegetable dishes. The festival provides an excellent opportunity for attendees to savor the unique flavors of Bai cuisine.

Sports and Competitions

Various traditional sports and games are organized during the festival, including tug-of-war, dragon boat races, and archery contests. These activities not only provide entertainment but also promote teamwork and community spirit among participants.

Ancestor Worship

A significant aspect of the festival is the practice of ancestor worship. The Bai people set up altars and make offerings to honor their ancestors, reflecting their deep respect for family heritage and traditions. This ritual is often accompanied by prayers for good fortune and a prosperous year ahead.

Conclusion

The March Street Festival of the Bai ethnic minority in Dali is a vibrant celebration of culture, community, and tradition. With its colorful performances, delicious food, and rich cultural exhibitions, the festival offers a unique glimpse into the lives and customs of the Bai people, making it a must-see event for anyone visiting the region. Visitors can immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere, engage with local customs, and appreciate the beauty of Bai culture during this joyous celebration.

Dali March Street Festival

The Dali March Street Festival is the grandest traditional festival for the diverse ethnic groups in Dali. Officially designated as an ethnic festival by the Standing Committee of the Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture People’s Congress in 1992, it is held annually from the 15th to the 21st day of the third lunar month, lasting for seven days. Each year, millions of people attend the March Street Festival, attracting numerous participants from both domestic and international locations, making it the most significant holiday for the Bai ethnic group.

Named for its occurrence in the third lunar month, the Dali March Street Festival is the largest annual folk market event in Yunnan, integrating commerce, cultural and sports activities, culinary experiences, and local customs. Historical documents, including the “Chronicles of the Bai Kingdom,” Li Yuanyang’s “Yunnan Comprehensive Gazetteer,” Xu Xiake’s “Travel Diary of Yunnan,” and the “Draft of Dali County Gazetteer,” record that the March Street Festival was originally known as Guanyin Street or Guanyin Market. It gradually evolved from the customs of worshiping Guanyin, dating back to the Tang Dynasty’s Yonghui era. The festival has flourished through the ages, reflecting the grandeur of past times with the lines, “Once prosperous for several springs and autumns, millions of coins flow like water; exquisite goods from Sichuan, Guangxi, Suzhou, and Hangzhou, the marketplace crowned in Asia” (from Qing Dynasty poet Li Xiexi’s “Bamboo Branch Verse”). It boasts a history of approximately 1,300 years.

From the 15th to the 21st day of the third lunar month each year, millions of people come to the March Street Festival from within Yunnan and from countries such as Myanmar and Thailand. The main features of the festival include:

• Material Exchange: A wide range of goods such as medicinal herbs, local specialties, livestock, agricultural tools, general merchandise, daily necessities, tea, candy, food items, handicrafts, and jewelry.
• Ethnic Sports and Cultural Performances: Events like horse racing, wrestling, archery, shooting, martial arts, chess, and ball games.
• Artistic Performances: Large-scale ethnic and folk performances such as the octagonal drum, whip dance, dragon dance, lion dance, clam crane dance, and flower boat race, along with mass singing competitions.

In addition to the local Bai and Han ethnic groups, participants from Yi, Tibetan, and many other ethnic groups actively take part, creating an unprecedented and bustling atmosphere. The ancient city of Dali is adorned with colorful lights, and “flower mountains” made from various flowers and plants are constructed outdoors, creating a stunningly vibrant and unique environment that transforms Dali into a magical world.

The March Street Festival serves as a grand event for the people of western Yunnan to showcase and exchange their economic and cultural heritage. It integrates the history, economy, culture, and customs of the Bai and other ethnic groups, playing a significant role in social and economic development, and having a profound impact both domestically and in Southeast Asia.

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Festivals of Bai Ethnic Minority

Haixihai Folk Song Festival of Bai Ethnic Minority in Eryuan County, Dali

Chinese Name:洱源县海西海歌会 English Name: Haixihai Folk Song Festival of Bai Ethnic Minority in Eryuan County, Dali 西海在洱源县牛街乡龙门坝，离县城24公里，为断陷溶蚀洼地形成的天然淡水湖泊。南海北坝，群山环抱，“四面为城”，明清时期是鹤庆府的八大名景之一。湖泊面积2.6平方公里，南北长3.6公里，东西最大宽1.5公里，湖岸线长10公里，平均水深10米，最大水深16米，平均 ...

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Cibihu Folk Song Festival of Bai Ethnic Minority in Eryuan County, Dali

Chinese Name:洱源县茈碧湖歌会/龙王会/海灯会 English Name: Cibihu Folk Song Festival of Bai Ethnic Minority in Eryuan County, Dali http://paper.yunnan.cn/html/20071122/news_96_202582.html...

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Benzhu Worship Festival of Bai Ethnic Minority in Dali

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Shibaoshan Folk Song Festival of Bai Ethnic Minority in Jianchuan County, Dali

Basic Introduction Chinese Name:剑川县石宝山歌会 English Name: Shibaoshan Folk Song Festival of Bai Ethnic Minority in Jianchuan County, Dali Location: Jianchuan County, Dali According to historical records, the Shibaoshan Folk...

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Worship of the Communal Gods of Bai Ethnic Minority

Shrine for the Communal GodsThe worship of the communal gods is a sort of religion peculiar to the Bai nationality. In the Bai language, the communal gods are also...

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Butterfly Festival of Bai Ethnic Minority in Dali City

Chinese Name:大理蝴蝶会 English Name: Butterfly Festival of Bai Ethnic Minority in Dali City The Butterfly Festival, a vibrant folk tradition of the Bai ethnic group, takes place annually in...

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Taizi Temple Fair of Bai Ethnic Minority in Jianchuan County, Dali

Chinese Name: 剑川县二月八太子庙会 English Name: Taizi Temple Fair of Bai Ethnic Minority in Jianchuan County, Dali Date: 19 March (lunar 8 February) Place: Jianchuan old town and Shaxi old...

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March Street (Sanyuejie) Festival of Bai Ethnic Minority in Dali

Chinese Name:大理白族三月街 English Name: March Street (Sanyuejie) Festival of Bai Ethnic Minority in Dali The March Street Festival, known as Sanyuejie, is one of the most significant traditional celebrations...

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