Baishijia Festival of Yi Ethnic Minority in Mengla County, XishuangBanna
The Yi Ethnic “February 8th·Baishijia Festival” (二月八·百诗佳节) is primarily celebrated in Xiangming Yi Ethnic Township (象明彝族乡), Mengla County (勐腊县) – the birthplace of Pu’er tea and the only Yi ethnic settlement in Xishuangbanna (西双版纳).
Cultural History
“Baishijia” means “hero” in Yi language. According to legend, a Yi youth named Jinxian possessed extraordinary strength and martial skills. When invaders attacked, Jinxian joined the army, promising to return by New Year. After missing two New Years, villagers assumed he had died in battle. On February 7th of the lunar calendar, Jinxian suddenly returned on horseback, revealing he had been wounded while earning military honors as a general. To celebrate, villagers held festivities on February 8th, establishing this annual “Hero’s Day”.
Folk Culture
This important Yi festival features diverse activities including:
- Traditional sports: swing-playing, top-spinning
- Cultural performances: San Duo Jiao dance (三跺脚), folk singing
- Economic activities: trade fairs
Nightly bonfire gatherings symbolize ethnic unity as participants join hands in dance.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
With tropical climate (average 22.7°C, 1,311mm precipitation), the ideal visiting period is November to April.
Recommended Attractions & Visiting Time
- Nanla River Starry Night Market (南腊河星光夜市): Sample local snacks and purchase quality tea, handmade crafts (2-3 hours)
- Yiwu (Mansa) Ancient Tea Mountain (易武/漫撒古茶山): Experience Yi traditions like tea-making, embroidery, and folk games (2-3 hours)
Transportation
From Kunming (昆明):
- Drive 400km via Kunmo Expressway (昆磨高速公路) to Jinghong (景洪)
- Continue via Xiaomo Highway (小磨公路) to Mengla (勐腊县) (5 hours total)
Local buses/taxis available to Xiangming Township (象明彝族乡)
Food
Festival specialties include:
- Yi cuisine: caravan dishes, bamboo shoot with glutinous rice
- Local snacks: bamboo-tube rice, grilled fish
Shopping
The night market offers quality Pu’er tea (普洱茶), handmade soy sauce, and ethnic crafts.
Accommodation
Options range from budget hotels to luxury resorts in Mengla (勐腊县). For authentic experience, try homestays in Xiangming Township (象明彝族乡).
Travel Tips
- Respect ethnic customs during celebrations
- Maintain environmental cleanliness
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Mengla (勐腊县), visit night market
Day 2: Explore ancient tea mountain cultural activities
Day 3: Continue tea mountain experience before departure
The “February 8th·Baishijia Festival” (二月八·百诗佳节) showcases vibrant Yi traditions while fostering ethnic harmony. May your journey through Mengla’s (勐腊县) cultural landscape be unforgettable.
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