London Lights Up with Yunnan’s Torch Festival & Culture

London’s streets transformed into a vibrant celebration of Yunnan culture this weekend, as the inaugural Yunnan Cultural Festival brought fiery traditions, mouthwatering flavors, and artistic wonders to the UK capital. The event spotlighted China’s southwest region through its iconic Torch Festival – a centuries-old ethnic celebration symbolizing unity and harvest joy.

Attendees wandered through pop-up markets filled with handwoven textiles, intricate silver jewelry, and aromatic Pu’er tea stalls. Live performances of the Yi ethnic group’s spirited dances had crowds clapping along, while foodies lined up for ‘Crossing the Bridge Noodles’ and Yunnan coffee tastings.

“This is about sharing Yunnan’s living heritage,” said festival organizer Li Wei, dressed in traditional Bai minority attire. “From Dongba paper-making workshops to modern eco-friendly innovations like biodegradable coffee packaging, we’re showing how tradition meets tomorrow.”

The event drew curious Londoners, diaspora communities, and even TikTok creators capturing the rainbow of cultural exchanges. As twilight fell, the symbolic torch-lighting ceremony painted the Thames riverside in warm golden hues – proving once again that cultural bridges shine brightest when shared.

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London streets come alive with Yunnan Cultural Festival

cgtn.com