Miao people celebrate tradition at Lushen Festival in Guizhou

Guizhou's Zhangpi Miao village celebrates the annual Lusheng Festival. [Photo/colorful Guizhou network]

Zhangpi Miao village, in the heart of Southwest China's Guizhou province, attracted tens of thousands of people from nearby areas this Chinese New Year to participate in the renowned Lusheng Festival, which took place from Feb 4 to 6.

The village, part of the Qiaogang area, is the birthplace of the Miao shoulder pole dance and has been recognized as one of 100 ethnic folk villages in Qiandongnan Miao and Dong autonomous prefecture.

Miao people dress in traditional clothes and dance at the Lusheng Festival. [Photo/colorful Guizhou network]

The New Year Lusheng Festival in the Qiaogang area, which includes the Miao villages of Zhangpi, Qiaogang, and Paili, has a long-standing tradition. Each year, one of these three villages takes turns hosting the festival, creating a continuous cycle of celebration. This year, Zhangpi had the honor of hosting, prompting people from surrounding areas to gather for this grand event.

Lusheng flutes filled the air, creating a symphony that echoed through the mountains. The festival grounds were bustling with activity, divided into the "grand dress arena" and the "casual dress arena."

Miao men and women, adorned in traditional attire and silver jewelry, were a feast for the eyes. They danced joyfully to the rhythm of lusheng music, their steps light and powerful, each movement brimming with a love for life and a hopeful anticipation for the new year.