Xiangshan Festival of Yi Ethnic Minority in Shuangbai County, Chuxiong
Basic Introduction
- Chinese Name: 双柏县大麦地镇河口村象山节
- English Name: Xiangshan Festival of Yi Ethnic Minority in Shuangbai County, Chuxiong
- Location: Shuangbai County, Chuxiong
The Xiangshan Festival, also known as the Xiangshan Festival of the Yi ethnic minority, is a vibrant cultural celebration held in Shuangbai County, Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China. This festival is deeply rooted in Yi culture and traditions, honoring the heroic figure of Abao and incorporating various rituals and activities that reflect the community’s rich heritage. The “Xiangsong Festival on March 16” was originally intended to honor the Yi ethnic hero Abao. It is said that Abao was from Shibao Village by the river. In order to prevent the flooding of the river valley from destroying the homes and lives of the villagers, Abao battled against the “Land Demon King” with both intelligence and courage. In the end, he defeated the “Land Demon King” through wisdom and bravery, allowing the villagers to live stable lives. Many years later, the villagers built a stone temple on Elephant Trunk Hill, where Abao defeated the “Land Demon King,” to commemorate Abao. Day after day, year after year, for hundreds of years, this sacrificial activity gradually evolved into today’s folk activities, including prayers for blessings and disaster relief, folk art performances, and spinning top competitions, and has been widely passed down through generations.
Activities of the Xiangshan Festival
- Ritual Offerings: The festival begins with ancestral worship ceremonies where villagers present offerings such as food, fruits, and traditional items to honor Abao and the spirits of their ancestors. This is a key aspect of expressing gratitude and seeking blessings.
- Stone Temple Pilgrimage: Many participants visit the stone temple built in remembrance of Abao on Elephant Trunk Hill. This pilgrimage is a way for villagers to connect with their roots and honor the hero’s legacy.
- Cultural Performances: The festival features a variety of cultural performances, including traditional songs, dances, and theatrical displays. These performances often depict historical stories and legends of the Yi people, showcasing their artistic talents and cultural richness.
- Folk Art Exhibitions: Villagers often organize exhibitions of traditional Yi handicrafts, such as weaving, embroidery, and metalwork. This not only promotes cultural heritage but also allows artisans to showcase their skills.
- Sports Competitions: Traditional sports events are a highlight of the festival, including activities like tug-of-war, archery, and wrestling. These competitions foster community spirit and camaraderie among participants.
- Spinning Top Competitions: A distinctive feature of the festival is the spinning top competitions, where participants showcase their skills and creativity. This activity is popular among both children and adults, adding an element of fun to the festival.
- Prayers for Blessings: Numerous rituals and ceremonies are conducted to pray for good harvests, peace, and prosperity in the coming year. This reflects the community’s agricultural roots and their connection to nature.
- Culinary Delights: Festive food is a vital part of the celebration. Villagers prepare traditional dishes, and communal feasting is common, promoting social bonding and sharing within the community.
- Long-standing Traditions: The festival is characterized by various other traditional customs, including wearing traditional Yi attire, conducting dance circles, and storytelling, which help to reinforce cultural identity and heritage.
