Naochunwang Festival in Eryuan County, Dali

The Introduction of the Festival

  • Chinese Name: 洱源县洱源县凤羽镇闹春王正月
  • English Name: Naochunwang Festival in Eryuan County, Dali
  • Location: Eryuan COunty, Dali Prefecture

In Fengyu Township, Eryuan County, there are two traditional Bai ethnic cultural activities: the “Celebration of the Spring King in the First Month,” among which the “Celebration of the Spring King in the First Month” is unique to Qifeng Village in Fengyu Town.

The “Celebration of the Spring King in the First Month” is called “Dazhewazhi Gao” in the Bai language. It generally takes place from the 14th to the 18th day of the lunar January, usually on the village roads or in spacious squares. Before the event, villagers volunteer to take on various roles. Roles include the main official, assistant officials, archers, messengers, guards, team leaders, fishermen, woodcutters, farmers, scholars, merchants, mute men and women, performers, teachers, fortune tellers, shamans, and those who have given birth in January – “those who offend the Spring King” – totaling three hundred.

Most of the female roles are played by men in disguise. Before the performance begins, a performer dressed in eccentric and humorous attire strikes a gong, walking or riding a horse to nearby villages to announce “Celebration of the Spring King in the First Month,” attracting an audience.

The performance sequence includes several segments, such as “Welcoming the Main Official,” “Interrogating Offenders,” and “Reading the Imperial Edict,” which are held in one location, while other performances based on different content and themes occupy separate locations. The entire village is divided into several areas for performance or alternates performances at the same location. The performances feature dances like the “Overlord Whip” and “Jumping God” interspersed throughout. There are also singing programs, where Bai “Blow Flute Chamber” songs often use inverted phrases and puns or homophonic words in Bai language for humor, creating a lively and amusing atmosphere.

The “Celebration of the Spring King in the First Month” emphasizes the word “celebrate,” featuring rich content, high cultural significance, large-scale production, and lively forms, making it a widely participatory and entertaining large ethnic folk cultural event.

The Local Activities of the Festival

1. Role-Playing and Processions

  • Role Assignments: Community members volunteer to play various traditional roles, including the “Main Official,” assistants, archers, and various characters representing different aspects of village life.
  • Processions: The festival often kicks off with colorful processions led by performers dressed in traditional and whimsical costumes. These processions help to attract spectators and create an atmosphere of festivity.

2. Performances and Cultural Displays

  • Theatrical Performances: The festival features reenactments of historical and cultural tales, including stories that involve the Spring King. Performances are typically lively, integrating humor and music.
  • Dance Performances: Traditional Bai dances, such as the “Overlord Whip Dance” and “Jumping God Dance,” are integral to the festivities, showcasing local choreography and costumes.

3. Music and Singing

  • Traditional Singing: Performers sing Bai traditional songs, often characterized by unique vocal techniques, including the well-known “Blow Flute Chamber.” The lyrics may include playful wordplay and inversions, adding an element of humor and engagement.
  • Instrumental Music: Local musicians perform using traditional instruments, enhancing the festive atmosphere and providing a soundtrack for the various activities.

4. Community Involvement

  • Public Participation: The festival encourages active involvement from community members. Villagers often join in the singing and dancing, fostering a sense of belonging and community spirit.
  • Volunteering Roles: Apart from performers, many villagers take on supportive roles, helping with the organization, logistics, and other essential functions during the festival.

5. Food and Social Gatherings

  • Feasting: Food plays a crucial role in the festival, with families preparing traditional Bai dishes. Communal meals are enjoyed, promoting sharing and camaraderie among participants.
  • Market Stalls: Local vendors may set up stalls selling traditional snacks, beverages, and handmade crafts. This adds both a culinary and economic aspect to the festival.

6. Cultural Competitions

  • Singing and Dancing Contests: Informal competitions may be held, where individuals or groups compete in singing and dancing, showcasing their talents and creativity.
  • Traditional Games: Various folk games may also take place, engaging participants in friendly competition and laughter.

7. Nature and Spiritual Connection

  • Cave Visits: Since the festival often occurs near natural sites like Qingyuan Cave, some local activities may include guided tours of the cave, emphasizing the community’s relationship with nature.
  • Spiritual Ceremonies: During the festival, there may also be rituals or ceremonies honoring local deities, reflecting the spiritual beliefs of the Bai people.