People from the Red Yao ethnic group hang their colorful clothes outdoors to celebrate the traditional "Drying Clothes Festival" in Longsheng County, Guilin City, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, creating a unique sight in the village.
Women from the Red Yao ethnic group hang out clothes on a balcony in Longsheng County, Guilin City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. /CFP
Women from the Red Yao ethnic group hang out clothes on a balcony in Longsheng County, Guilin City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. /CFP
The "Drying Clothes Festival" falls on the sixth day of every sixth lunar month, and is one of the most important festivals for the Red Yao people. During the one-day festival, local residents collect colorful clothes and shoes to dry them out of their windows or spread them out on bamboo mats in their yards for several hours, letting the bright sunlight do its natural disinfection work. They believe it's a natural way to get rid of bugs and bacteria in the hope of receiving wellbeing and good luck.
Living in the wonderland of the renowned Guilin City, the ethnic group has a long history and a vibrant culture. Their traditional red garments are just one of the items that demonstrate the Red Yao people's characteristics. During the festival, local women gather in a square to show off their sophisticated knitting and embroidery skills, creating delicate patterns featuring the ethnic group's unique cultural elements on the garments to bring good fortune.
Women from the Red Yao ethnic group gather to show off their knitting and embroidery skills in Longsheng County, Guilin City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. /CFP
Women from the Red Yao ethnic group gather to show off their knitting and embroidery skills in Longsheng County, Guilin City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. /CFP
Wedding ceremonies are a special tradition that take place at the festival. New couples choose the big day to start the next phase of their lives by holding ethnic-style wedding ceremonies to share their happiness and receive blessings.
Men from the Red Yao ethnic group play musical instruments in Longsheng County, Guilin City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. /CFP
Men from the Red Yao ethnic group play musical instruments in Longsheng County, Guilin City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. /CFP
What's more, locals also express their gratitude and reverence to the sun on that day by performing unique dances and songs. Men play musical instruments while women dance along with the rhythm, creating a passionate atmosphere that attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year to explore the charm of this village and also appreciate their traditions.