Dragon dance to take center stage at Guizhou Lantern Festival

Taijiang people celebrate the Lantern Festival with dragon dances and lanterns. [Photo/ddcpc website]

Taijiang county in Southwest China's Guizhou province will hold a dragon dance and lantern competition on Jan 11 to celebrate the approaching Lantern Festival. Teams from various villages have prepared meticulously crafted dragon lanterns and flower lanterns to participate.

Dragon lanterns come in various shapes and forms. Some are winding and agile, appearing ready to soar into the heavens, while others are vibrant and colorful, sparkling brilliantly under the lights.

Flower lanterns are equally exquisite. They are adorned with ancient Miao legends and scenes from daily life as if narrating captivating stories.

The true highlight of the festivities will be on the night of Jan 12, during the Lantern Festival's dragon dance and fireworks extravaganza. As dusk falls, countless lanterns will illuminate the town, transforming Taijiang into a sea of joy.

The dragon dance and fireworks extravaganza is not only a lively folk event but also a continuation and celebration of Miao culture. It embodies the Miao people's aspirations for a better life, reverence for their ancestors, and steadfast spirit.

Through this event, Miao culture is passed down through the ages, strengthening the community's cohesion and sense of identity. It also attracts numerous tourists, allowing people to appreciate Miao culture's unique charm and fostering cultural exchanges and dissemination.