The Xichang Torch Festival is the biggest festive occasion for the Yi ethnic group, who mainly live in southwest China. The Yi people are fire worshippers as they believe fire is able to ward off evil spirits and pave the way for a good harvest. During this three-day festival, a slew of cultural activities are held: from wrestling to beauty pageants. CGTN's Wei Lynn Tang has more.

A selection of not just the prettiest and the most handsome – but one who has the most knowledge of his and her ethnic culture. The Yi people belong to one of China's 56 ethnic groups. They are celebrating their biggest festive occasion: the Torch Festival, presently underway in China's southwestern city of Xichang. And this beauty pageant is just one of the many cultural activities held in conjunction with the 3-day carnival.

ASU JIEYA LOCAL YI ETHNIC "During my mother's time, pageant contestants were observed and judged by the elderly based on their behavior at home, morality and physical appearance. But now, the criteria have changed. We are tested on our understanding of ethnic culture, such as lacquer crafts and embroidery. This beauty contest has made me realize the beauty of Yi women on a deeper level. As the younger generation, we have the responsibility to pass down our ethnicity's traditions."

WEI LYNN TANG XICHANG, SICHUAN PROVINCE "It's my first time experiencing the Torch Festival, known as 'Duze' in the Yi language, which means fire worship. Speaking to the locals here, I can see why fire remains such as a strong symbol of hope for them. And they have brought forth this fiery spirit to the stage and their approach in life."

During the day, 30 men took part in a wrestling competition. I am told the distinctive Yi style of wrestling is: two hands on the waist, without letting them go. And it seems volunteers participate in the name of honour, and not so much for the cash prizes.

JISHA YIZHU LOCAL YI ETHNIC "I have loved wrestling since I was a little kid; it's part of our traditional culture. I have been participating in this contest for three straight years, and am aiming to be the champion, as I believe by winning, the road ahead will be easier for me."

Well, the Torch Festival isn't just a platform to better oneself and expand your circle of friends.

BOSHI AGA HONORARY PRESIDENT, XICHANG YI SOCIETY "After China's reform and opening up, our Torch Festival has become the Eastern or Oriental Valentine's Day. For 3 days these young men and women can date without worrying about traditional taboos."

When night falls, friends and strangers dance and sing around bonfires seemingly, without a care in the world. A brilliant kind of cultural upkeep: intertwining a fun-packed festival with that of a bigger agenda, ensuring this two-thousand year old tradition is not lost. WLT, CGTN, Xichang in Sichuan Province.