“Sanyuesan” Festival Celebrated in Baojing Dong Village, Zhenyuan, Guizhou

On March 29, the vibrant "Sanyuesan" Festival unfolded in Baojing Dong Village, Zhenyuan County, Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture, Guizhou Province. Tourists from across China joined the local Dong community in a joyous celebration filled with singing, dancing, and traditional rituals, immersing themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the Dong people.

Recognized as one of Baojing Dong Village’s most significant festivals, "Sanyuesan" also serves as a romantic occasion where young men and women express their affections. In 2014, the festival was included in the List of National Representative Items of Intangible Cultural Heritage, solidifying its role as a captivating window into Dong cultural traditions.

Dong girls adorned in elaborate traditional attire

Photo by Chen Guo

Tree Worship Ceremony

Photo by ChenGuo

The day’s festivities began with a unique tree worship ceremony, a sacred Dong tradition. After breakfast, young women dressed in elaborate attire ventured into vegetable gardens to harvest scallion and garlic seedlings, which they carefully washed by the pond. They then formed a procession along the water’s edge, awaiting the arrival of young men. In this age-old courtship ritual, a girl would present her scallion-filled basket to a suitor if their feelings were mutual.

Pledge of eternal affection

Photo by Zhenyuan District Converged Media Center

As night fell, the village radiated with glowing lanterns, setting the stage for an enchanting evening. Hand in hand, villagers swayed to the Lusheng Caiguwu, a spirited reed pipe dance. The rhythmic beats, graceful movements, and pulsating energy of the celebration culminated in a spectacular festive climax.

The Long-table Banquet

Photo by Zhenyuan District Converged Media Center

Through vibrant traditions, Baojing Dong Village continues to preserve and showcase its rich cultural legacy, ensuring that the beauty of Sanyuesan is passed down for generations to come.