Festivals & Ethnic Entertainment in Wenshan Prefecture

Wenshan is an autonomous prefecture inhabited by multiple ethnic groups. The local ethnic minorities have distinctive forms of entertainment. If you have the chance, do experience their unique pastimes.

Time: From the 2nd to the 5th day of the first lunar month

Also known as Ca Huashan, this grand traditional festival of the Miao people is mainly celebrated at Puzhehei Scenic Area in Qiubei County. Originally held to worship Chi You, the ancestral deity of the Miao ethnic group, the festival now features rituals for the sacred flower pole, pole climbing, lusheng music and dances, bullfighting and martial arts performances. During the festival, Miao men and women in splendid costumes hold colorful flower umbrellas and sing love songs to each other, creating a lively and joyous atmosphere.

Time: The 20th day of the second lunar month

Also called the Flower Street Festival, it is the most important annual traditional festival for the Zhuang people living in Guangnan, Funing and surrounding areas. It is primarily celebrated in Meng Village, Guichao Town, Funing County, lasting 3 to 5 days. Longduan is a Zhuang dialect term, referring to a fair held on farmlands and meadows. Young men and women gather to sing duets and court each other. There are also operas, acrobatics, songs and dance shows for visitors to enjoy.

Time: The 3rd day of the third lunar month

Hosted in Nahong Village, Qiubei County, this festival features various cultural and artistic performances.

Time: The 8th day of the fourth lunar month

Celebrated in Longyang Village, Banlun Township, Funing County, it is a carnival of singing and dancing for the local Yi people.

Time: The 14th day of the fourth lunar month

Rooted in the rice-farming culture, this festival serves as a traditional trade fair and an occasion for tribal leaders to form alliances. It is also a festival for visiting relatives, a local Valentine's Day, and a grand spring singing gala of the Zhuang community. Each year, tens of thousands of people in festive costumes gather in Guangnan. Thousands of young men and women sing duets to express their affection. Traditional cultural performances such as bronze drum dances with distinct ethnic characteristics are also staged.

Time: From the 24th day of the sixth lunar month to the 24th day of the seventh lunar month

Exclusive to the Yi people in Qiubei County, this festival has a history of over 1,000 years and ranks as the most renowned festival around Puzhehei. The celebrations kick off with a grand opening show, followed by face-painting carnivals, water-splashing games and fish-catching contests. The highlight lies in people smearing soot on one another’s faces to exchange blessings for good fortune and happiness. Every year, tens of thousands of visitors come to join the revelry.

Time: The 14th day of the ninth lunar month

Mainly held in Dongpo Township, Funing County. Local residents slaughter livestock and prepare feasts to treat relatives and friends, exchanging festive greetings. The festival generally lasts 3 days, and sometimes up to 7 days. Wonderful traditional Yao dance performances are put on throughout the event.