Dragon Worship Festival of Lisu Ethnic Minority in Xiangyun County, Dali

Overview

• Chinese Name:大理祥云县米甸镇傈僳族祭龙会
• English Name: Dragon Worship Festival (Jilonghui) of Lisu Ethnic Minority in Xiangyun County, Dali
• Location: Dragon Worship Festival in Xiangyun County is held in Lilame Village of Midian Town.

The Dragon Worship Festival is an important cultural event celebrated by the Lisu ethnic minority in Xiangyun County, Dali, Yunnan Province, China. This festival is typically held in the summer, often around the time of the summer solstice, and it is deeply rooted in the Lisu people’s agricultural practices and spiritual beliefs.

Introduction to the Festival

The Dragon Worship Festival is a celebration that expresses gratitude to the dragon, which is considered a symbol of rain and fertility in Lisu culture. It is believed that by worshiping the dragon, the Lisu people can ensure a good harvest and pray for abundant rainfall. The festival combines elements of animism, ancestor worship, and agricultural rituals.

Local Activities and Celebrations

During the Dragon Worship Festival, several unique activities and ceremonies take place, including:

1. Ritual Ceremonies: The festival typically begins with rituals conducted by local shamans. They perform prayers and blessings to call upon the dragon, asking for rain and a prosperous farming season. Offerings, which may include rice, fruits, and other items, are presented at altars set up for the dragon.
2. Cultural Performances: Traditional music and dance are integral parts of the festival. Lisu people perform folk dances and songs, often wearing colorful traditional costumes. These performances celebrate the culture and heritage of the Lisu community.
3. Dragon Parades: Some areas may hold dragon parades, where participants create elaborate dragon puppets or costumes. This lively and colorful display symbolizes the dragon’s power and its connection to water and agriculture.
4. Sports and Games: Traditional sports and games are organized, fostering community spirit and enjoyment. Activities may include races, tug-of-war, and various traditional games that showcase strength and agility.
5. Feasting: Food plays a central role in the festival. Families come together to prepare and share traditional dishes, which often feature local ingredients. This communal sharing of food enhances the festive atmosphere and strengthens social bonds.
6. Social Gatherings: The festival serves as a significant social occasion for the Lisu people, providing an opportunity for communities to come together, forge relationships, and celebrate their identity.

The Dragon Festival in Lilame Village of Midian Town in Xiangyun County, Dali

On March 8, the second day of the second lunar month, the village comes alive with the Dragon Festival, known as “祭龙会” (Jì lóng huì) or “Dragon Worship Festival” in the Lisu language. The festival is celebrated with much enthusiasm and is believed to bring rain and blessings for the year. The village is adorned with festive decorations, and the villagers are busy preparing for the celebrations, including setting up the venue, slaughtering chickens and sheep, and making other arrangements for the guests.

The Dragon Festival is a traditional ritual held before the agricultural activities of the year begin, where the community prays for favorable weather, bountiful harvests, and general prosperity and safety. It combines rich agricultural culture, unique ethnic customs, and entertainment, and has been widely recognized and celebrated for many years.

Activities and Events:

1. Morning Rituals:
   • Venue Preparation: Cleaning the site and arranging for the celebration.
   • Rituals: Traditional Lisu ceremonies and offerings are performed by the ritual priest.
2. Festival Traditions:
   • Dragon Worship: The festival involves worshipping the dragon, believed to bring rain and blessings.
   • Activities: Includes erecting the dragon pole, climbing the heavenly ladder, taking mud baths, and traditional farming methods like slash-and-burn.
3. Cultural Performances:
   • Artistic Performances: Local and regional amateur art troupes perform various traditional songs and dances, including “Reed Pipe Dance,” “Lisu Folk Tunes,” and others.
   • Fashion Show: A display of traditional Lisu costumes, showcasing vibrant and diverse attire.
4. Evening Festivities:
   • Campfire Party: An energetic celebration with traditional songs, dances, and a lively campfire gathering.

Festival Significance:

The Dragon Festival has evolved from a local village celebration into a multi-ethnic cultural event, showcasing the rich traditions and vibrant culture of the Lisu people. It represents the unity and harmony of the local community and highlights the region’s prosperity and cultural richness.

Local Hospitality:

The Lisu people are known for their hospitality and warmth. Visitors are greeted with traditional Lisu wine and songs, reflecting the community’s genuine friendliness and eagerness to share their culture.

Visit Li Lame Village:

The Dragon Festival, held annually on March 11, offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich cultural traditions of the Lisu people. The festival promises an engaging blend of traditional rituals, cultural performances, and community celebrations. Li Lame Village warmly invites visitors to join in the festivities and experience the lively and welcoming spirit of the Lisu community.

Festival Schedule:

• 13:00 – 14:30: Rituals, dragon pole erection, ladder climbing, and mud bathing.
• 15:00 – 16:00: Stage performances and group singing.
• 20:00 – 21:30: Campfire party and social gathering.

The Lisu people eagerly await your visit, extending their warm hospitality through traditional customs, music, and dance.