July 15th Festival in Shuangbai County, Chuxiong
Overview of the July 15th Festival
- Chinese Name: 双柏鄂嘉镇七月十五节/鬼节
- English Name: July 15th Festival in Shuangbai County, Chuxiong
- Location: Ejia Town of Shuangbai County/双柏鄂嘉镇
The July 15th Festival, also known as the Ghost Festival or Zhongyuan Festival, is an important traditional celebration in Shuangbai County, which is part of the Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan Province, China. This festival, observed by various ethnic groups including the Yi and Han, is a time for honoring ancestors and remembering the deceased.
The July 15th Festival occurs on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, a time believed to be when the gates of the underworld open, allowing spirits to return to the realm of the living. Family members pay respects to their ancestors, seeking to ensure their comfort and blessings in the afterlife. It is also believed to be a moment to ward off evil spirits and seek protection from misfortune.
Activities during the July 15th Festival
In Shuangbai County, the July 15th Festival includes a variety of activities that blend cultural heritage with spiritual significance:
- Ancestral Worship: Families prepare offerings, such as food, fruits, and incense, to honor their ancestors. These offerings are placed at family altars and gravesites, symbolizing respect and remembrance.
- Visiting Graves: People visit cemeteries to clean and decorate the graves of their loved ones. This act of care is essential for honoring the deceased and showing that they are still remembered and cherished.
- Ritual Ceremonies: Special rituals are conducted by local shamans or religious leaders to invoke the spirits’ blessings. This may involve chanting, prayers, and rites intended to invite peace and prosperity for the living and deceased alike.
- Community Celebrations: Many communities organize potluck-style gatherings where people share meals, stories, and memories of those who have passed. This helps to foster a sense of unity and connection among community members.
- Cultural Performances: Traditional songs and dances may be performed during the festival to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the area. These performances not only honor the deceased but also promote cultural continuity.
- Lanterns and Incense Burning: Releasing lanterns into the sky or burning incense is a way to guide the spirits of the deceased back to their resting places. It also serves as a way for families to express their wishes for peace and safety.
- Release of Water Lanterns: In some communities, the festival includes the release of water lanterns on rivers or lakes, symbolizing the guiding of spirits to the afterlife. This act is both beautiful and deeply symbolic.
