Haidenghui Festival of Qingsuo Village in Dali
Basic Introduction
- Chinese Name: 海灯会
- English Name: Haidenghui Festival
- Date: 15th July each year(Lunar Calendar)
Haideng Festival is the biggest tradition prevailing in Qingsuo Village, Dali Prefecture, Yunnan. It’s names as “Haideng” Festival because the village lies on the lakeside of Erhai, a famous lake in Dali. On lunar 15th July each year, the Bai residences gather around Qingsuo Bridge to celebrate the festival. You will find colorful worship ornamentations hanging on the bridge. The elders will recite prayers and burn incense for praying favourable climatic weathers and an abundant harvest, yearning the ancestors and expiate the sins of the dead. In the evening, it comes to the climax, the sincere people will light up and put the light on the river, making wishes. What a wonderful picture with thousands of flaring light floating down the river. This festival is particularly significant in the context of local agricultural practices and community bonding.
Significance
Haidenghui Festival has deep cultural and historical roots among the Bai people, serving both as a celebration of the harvest and a time to honor ancestors and local deities. The name “Haidenghui” translates to “the gathering of the sea of lights,” symbolizing the coming together of the community to celebrate life, express gratitude, and pray for a prosperous future.
Main Activities
- Lighting of Lamps and Lanterns: One of the festival’s most enchanting rituals involves lighting lamps and lanterns, creating a beautiful display of lights that symbolize hope and joy. Villagers often decorate their homes and public spaces with colorful lanterns, which create a festive atmosphere.
- Ritual Offering: Ceremonies are held to make offerings to ancestors and deities. This is an important aspect of the festival, reflecting the Bai people’s respect for their heritage and their belief in the protection of their crops and well-being.
- Cultural Performances: The Haidenghui Festival features vibrant folk performances, including traditional Bai music and dance. Dancers often dress in elaborate costumes, showcasing their cultural identity while performing traditional dances that reflect historical and mythological themes.
- Community Gatherings: The festival is a time for community bonding, where people come together to celebrate, share stories, and reinforce social ties. Families and friends gather to enjoy meals together, often featuring local delicacies.
- Games and Competitions: Various traditional games and competitions may be organized, providing entertainment and promoting a spirit of camaraderie among participants. These activities help strengthen community ties and encourage friendly rivalries.
- Market Activities: Local markets may pop up during the festival, selling crafts, traditional foods, and other goods. This not only supports local artisans but also adds to the festive atmosphere as people shop and socialize.
Cultural Heritage
The Haidenghui Festival is an expression of Bai culture, showcasing the community’s values, beliefs, and traditions. It represents a blend of agricultural practices, spiritual observances, and communal solidarity. The festival plays a crucial role in passing down cultural knowledge to younger generations, instilling a sense of pride and belonging within the community.
In conclusion, the Haidenghui Festival in Qingsuo Village is a lively and meaningful celebration that emphasizes the importance of community, culture, and agriculture for the Bai ethnic minority. Through its rich array of activities, the festival fosters unity and showcases the vibrant cultural identity of the region.
