Step into a world of flames, folklore, and fiery fun! The Yi ethnic group's Torch Festival—one of China's most vibrant cultural celebrations—is back, lighting up late July with ancient traditions and modern energy.
Mark your calendars: This year’s festivities kick off on July 29-30 (dates vary by region) as communities honor their heritage through bonfire dances, folk sports, and dazzling torch parades. Imagine streets glowing with handheld flames while locals rock intricate embroidered outfits passed down through generations!
Why young globetrotters care: It’s a masterclass in cultural preservation.
Perfect for travelers craving authentic experiences.
A living example of how tradition meets TikTok-era vibes.
Pro tip: Don’t miss the midnight 'spark showers' when torches are shaken to create cascading light effects—total Instagram gold!
New to Yi culture? No sweat! The festival welcomes everyone to join dragon-boat-style wrestling matches, try honey-infused rice wines, and dance to ‘Tiaoyue’ rhythms until sunrise.
Reference(s):
Join the fire carnival: The Torch Festival of the Yi ethnic group
cgtn.com