Shaobaichai Festival of Achang Ethnic Minority
Introduction of the Festival
- Chinese Name:阿昌族进洼节/开门节
- English Name: Shaobaichai Festival of Achang Ethnic Minority
“Jinwa Festival” is a Chinese translation of the De’ang language, which means “Closing the Door Festival”. It is a festival celebrated by the Dai and De’ang ethnic groups in Yunnan Province, China, every year on the 15th day of the 9th month of the Dai calendar, lasting for three months. On the 14th day, early in the morning, young girls carry clean water to the Buddhist temple to bathe the Buddha. At midnight, the “Jinwa” begins, as the sound of drums is heard from the temple. Elders bring offerings such as incense, candles, rice, and flowers to the back of the Buddha’s statue to deposit them.
On the 15th day, a ceremony called “Danfo” is held, during which people offer food, flowers, and money to the Buddha, light incense and candles, and burn money and paper. From this day on, a small “Danfo” is held every seven days. On the eighth day of each household, food and drinks are brought to the Buddhist temple for sacrifice, and people listen to the Buddha’s lectures and pray for God’s blessing. In addition to being rich in religious significance, the Jinwa Festival is also held during the busy farming season to enable people to concentrate on productive labor. Therefore, marriage and love are prohibited during this period, and Buddhist monks and young monks are not allowed to stay in other villages.
Local Activities of the Shaobaichai Festival
- Culinary Traditions:
- A major highlight of the Shaobaichai Festival is the preparation and sharing of traditional dishes. Families come together to cook a variety of foods, with Shaobaichai (a local dish made with fermented vegetables, typically mustard greens), being the centerpiece. This dish symbolizes abundance and hospitality.
- Decorating Houses:
- In preparation for the festival, families often clean and decorate their homes. This includes putting up traditional ornaments, as well as displaying banners and symbols that represent good fortune and prosperity. This activity is meant to invite blessings and create a festive atmosphere.
- Ritual Offerings:
- Rituals play an important role during the Shaobaichai Festival. People make offerings to their ancestors at family altars, expressing gratitude and seeking blessings for health and prosperity. This may include fruits, incense, and food items.
- Traditional Music and Dance:
- The festival features performances of traditional Achang music and dance. Local musicians play traditional instruments, and dancers perform folk dances that highlight Achang history and stories. This aspect of the celebration helps preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Achang people.
- Games and Competitions:
- The festival often includes various games and sports competitions that foster community engagement and camaraderie. These may include traditional sports, tug-of-war, and racing events, providing an opportunity for friendly rivalry and fun.
- Community Gatherings:
- Shaobaichai Festival brings the community together, encouraging social interactions among families and friends. People gather to enjoy food, participate in activities, and share in the joyous atmosphere of the festival.
- Connecting with Nature:
- Some celebratory practices may involve engaging with nature, such as gathering herbs, collecting wild plants, or participating in outdoor activities. These activities reflect the Achang people’s deep connection to their environment and the importance of agriculture in their lives.
- Cultural Exhibitions:
- There may also be cultural exhibitions or storytelling sessions held during the festival, where local elders share legends and tales that are significant to the Achang culture. This helps to pass down traditions and educate younger generations about their heritage.
