Xuntianba Festival of Dai Ethnic Minority in Lvchun County, Honghe
Basic Introduction of The Festival
Chinese Name: 傣族巡田坝节
English Name: Xuntianba Festival of Dai Ethnic Minority in Lvchun County, Honghe
Location: Luxi Couty, Yunnan Province
This is a unique traditional festival of the Dai people in the Qimaba area of Luxi County. It is held annually on the thirteenth day of the first lunar month and lasts for one day.
On the morning of the thirteenth day, as the sun shines on the water towns of the Dai, the melodious and graceful Dai men and women don their festive attire and gather under the large banyan tree in the center of the village. The sound of gongs fills the air, and singers hold fragrant rice wine, raising their voices to sing spring welcoming songs and seasonal melodies. The crowd dances to the rhythm of the drums, and the entire area is alive with joy. The song and dance festival continues until the sun reaches its peak in the sky.
At this time, an elder announces, “The Field Patrol has begun!” Instantly, those enchanted by the singing and dancing form an orderly line: eight young people leading the way with colorful flags, followed by others playing trumpets; some beat drums and gongs while others set off firecrackers and gunpowder, gradually making their way toward the fields. After following the designated route, the people gather to formulate village regulations and agreements for the busy spring plowing season, ensuring that the spring planting can be completed in accordance with the seasonal schedule.
The Local Activities of the Festival
- Traditional Dress and Gathering: On the morning of the festival, Dai men and women dress in their traditional, colorful attire and gather in the village center. The atmosphere is festive and lively, setting the stage for a day of celebration and community spirit.
- Singing and Dancing: As part of the festivities, local singers perform traditional songs, including spring welcoming songs and seasonal melodies. These performances are often accompanied by lively dancing, with participants moving to the rhythms of drums and gongs, creating a joyful and spirited environment.
- Offering Rice Wine: An important aspect of the celebration involves the sharing of fragrant rice wine. Singers often offer this wine to the audience, symbolizing hospitality and community bonding as everyone joins in the festivities.
- Field Patrol Ritual: An elder typically announces the start of the “Field Patrol.” Participants organize into an orderly procession, with young people leading the way, holding colorful flags. The procession is accompanied by sounds from trumpets, gongs, and firecrackers, reflecting the festive mood and cultural heritage.
- Community Regulations for Spring Plowing: After completing the procession, villagers gather to discuss and establish regulations for the upcoming spring plowing season. These discussions are crucial for ensuring a coordinated effort in agricultural activities, demonstrating the community’s commitment to cooperation and sustainability.
- Culinary Traditions: Alongside the celebrations, traditional Dai dishes may be prepared and shared among community members, representing the rich culinary heritage of the Dai people and the importance of food in bringing people together.
- Youth Interaction: The festival is also a time for socializing, especially for young men and women, who seize the opportunity to mingle, express their affections, and form connections amid the festivities.
