Guozi Festival of Bai Ethnic Minority in Heqing County, Dali
Overview of the Festival
- Chinese Name:大理鹤庆县白族果子节
- English Name: Guozi Festival of Bai Ethnic Minority in Heqing County, Dali
- Location: Heqing County, Dali Prefecture
- Time: the 16th day of the 8th month in the lunar calendar
It is said that the 16th day of the 8th month in the lunar calendar is the day when the Flower Fairy descended to teach people how to cultivate fruit. In honor of the Flower Fairy, this day is designated as the Fruit Festival each year. During the festival, families invite relatives and friends to feast together. At noon on that day, people serve mooncakes, play the suona (a traditional wind instrument), and sing folk songs as they go to the orchard to make offerings to the Flower Fairy. They return home for dinner only after the moon rises in the east.
Local Activities
- Fruit Offerings and Worship: Community members pay homage to the Flower Fairy by preparing offerings of fruits and other seasonal produce. This ritual often occurs in orchards or at designated worship sites, where people express gratitude for the harvest and seek blessings for future prosperity.
- Feasting and Sharing Meals: Families gather together to prepare and enjoy lavish banquets featuring traditional Bai dishes. Mooncakes, fruits, and other specialties are shared among family members and guests, reinforcing social bonds and community ties.
- Traditional Music and Dance: Local musicians play traditional instruments, including the suona and other folk instruments, while groups perform lively dances. These performances often tell stories or express cultural themes, contributing to the festive atmosphere.
- Singing Folk Songs: Folk songs are an integral part of the celebration. Participants often gather to sing traditional Bai songs, which reflect the community’s history, values, and experiences.
- Cultural Performances: The festival may include various cultural performances such as drama, skits, and storytelling that highlight Bai folklore and traditions. These performances serve as both entertainment and a way to preserve cultural heritage.
- Games and Competitions: Fun activities and competitions, such as traditional games or sports, may be organized to engage the community and provide entertainment, particularly for children and youth.
- Decorating with Flowers and Fruits: Homes and public spaces are often decorated with flowers and fruits, symbolizing abundance and a bountiful harvest. This decoration adds to the festive ambiance and showcases the region’s agricultural richness.
- Community Gatherings: The festival serves as a time for reunion and socializing. People from near and far return to their hometowns to celebrate with family and friends, fostering a sense of belonging and community spirit.
- Youth Participation: Young people are often encouraged to take part in cultural performances and activities, ensuring the transmission of traditional knowledge and practices to the next generation.
