In a dazzling display of light and culture, a quarter of a million people gathered in Xichang City, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, to kick off the annual Liangshan Yi Torch Festival.
The three-day celebration began with mesmerizing Yi song-and-dance performances and vibrant displays of intangible cultural heritage, highlighting the community's deep reverence for fire and their rich traditions.
The highlight of the festival came when an avenue stretching over 4.8 kilometers was lit up by 88 roaring bonfires. Tens of thousands of visitors joined the Yi people, dressed in traditional costumes, dancing joyfully to folk songs around the blazing fires. 🔥
Recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage since 2006, this torch festival is the biggest holiday for the Yi, carrying heartfelt prayers for safety, bountiful harvests, and harmony between communities and nature.
This spectacular event perfectly captures the essence of the Yi culture, proving that ancient traditions can still light up modern celebrations with unity and pride.
Reference(s):
Light it up! Torch carnival hails unique ethnic culture in SW China
cgtn.com
