The Shui ethnic group, primarily residing in Guizhou Province, is one of the few ethnic minorities in China to possess their own language, writing system, and calendar.
The Duan Festival of the Shui nationality stands as the grandest celebration for the Shui people, extending for an impressive 49 days, possibly making it one of the world's longest festivals. During this time, Shui people come together with relatives and friends to pay tribute to their ancestors, carrying forward the traditions of the ancient Shui clan tribes in celebration of the harvest and the new year.
The Duan Festival celebrations are currently in progress. Throughout this period, young girls don traditional clothes and glisten with sparkling silver jewellery, dancing to the harmonies of reed flutes, bronze drums, and other traditional musical instruments. Elders preside over ceremonies at the altar, offering sacrifices and sharing freshly brewed wine with the younger generation, symbolising the best of blessings.
If you were to visit a Shui Nationality Village at this moment, you'd be greeted by the resonant echoes of bronze drums and melodious singing from morning till night. It's a time when the entire community becomes immersed in an atmosphere of festive joy.
The Duan Festival of the Shui nationality
