Colorful celebrations mark Miao people's annual April 8th Festival

On May 5, the Miao King City scenic area in southwest China's Guizhou Province came alive with vibrant festivities as the annual April 8th Festival – a cherished traditional celebration of the Miao ethnic group that falls on April 8 in the traditional Chinese calendar – unfolded.

The event was a dazzling showcase of Miao culture. Spectacular performances of flower drum dances and enchanting Miao folk songs filled the air, while thrilling displays of the unique customs left the audience in awe. Fishing competitions and bullfighting matches added an exciting touch to the festivities, and long-table banquets offered a taste of Miao culinary traditions. Miao people from across the province and beyond, resplendently dressed in their finest traditional costumes, converged at the venue. They joyfully sang, danced, and celebrated side by side with the tourists, creating a harmonious and festive atmosphere.

Known also as the "Yanu Festival," this occasion has deep historical roots, originating from commemoration of the revered Miao hero "Yanu." Its cultural significance was officially recognized in 2011 when it was inscribed on the third batch of China's National Intangible Cultural Heritage List.

Today, the April 8th Festival has transcended ethnic boundaries, evolving into a grand carnival embraced by all ethnic groups. It stands as the most significant festival for the Miao people, serving as a momentous occasion for ancestor worship, honoring heroes, and communal celebration. Imbued with a profound ethnic spirit and rich cultural heritage, the festival vividly mirrors the Miao people's passion for diligence and their unwavering aspirations for a better life.