Miao ethnic people celebrate Wanghui Festival

The Wanghui Festival is an important festival among the Miao ethnic group.

I. Festival Significance

1. Prayer for Blessings
   It is a time when the Miao people pray for good harvests, prosperity, and the well being of the family and the whole ethnic group. They express their gratitude to nature and the gods for the blessings they have received and hope for continued good fortune in the future.

2. Cultural Inheritance
   Through the celebration of the Wanghui Festival, various traditional Miao cultural elements are passed down. This includes unique folk arts such as traditional Miao dance, music (like lusheng music), and handicrafts.

II. Festival Celebrations

1. Costume Display
   The Miao people will wear their most elaborate and traditional costumes. These costumes are often hand made, with intricate embroidery, silver ornaments, and unique patterns that represent different aspects of their history, beliefs, and daily life.
2. Folk Dances and Music
   Lusheng dance is a highlight. The lusheng is a traditional musical instrument of the Miao ethnic group. People play the lusheng and dance in groups, with the rhythm of the music guiding their movements. The dance steps are lively and reflect the unique aesthetic of the Miao people.
   There are also other forms of folk songs sung during the festival. The lyrics often tell stories of the Miao's history, love, and the beauty of their homeland.
3. Religious Rituals
   Priests or the elders in the village may lead some religious related activities. This may include sacrificing to ancestors and gods, offering sacrifices such as livestock, fruits, and wine, and praying for good weather, healthy families, and bumper harvests.
4. Gathering and Feasting
   The Miao people gather together. Families and friends get together to share a big feast. The food mainly includes local specialties such as glutinous rice, pickled fish, and various kinds of game (in line with legal regulations). During the meal, people also exchange greetings and stories, strengthening family and community bonds.