The Torch Festival: A Dazzling Celebration of Yi Culture in Yunnan. As darkness descends, villages across Yunnan ignite with the glow of countless torches, rhythmic dances, and spirited chants, transforming the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of light and tradition. The Torch Festival is a breathtaking showcase of Yi heritage, offering visitors an immersive journey into the rich customs of China’s ethnic minorities.
Held annually around June 24th or 25th of the lunar calendar, this three-day celebration is observed by the Yi, Bai, and Naxi peoples. More than just a spectacle, the festival is a profound tribute to fire—a symbol of purification, unity, and renewal in Yi culture.
Steeped in ancient fire-worship traditions, the event blends religious rituals, traditional sports, and exuberant performances. Attendees witness fire sacrifices, thrilling horse races, and spirited singing and dancing, all pulsating with cultural significance. Recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2006, the festival underscores the enduring legacy of Yi traditions.
Beyond its vibrant festivities, the Torch Festival carries deep meaning—prayers for safety, bountiful harvests, and harmony between communities and nature. In 2025, the festival will illuminate Yunnan once again, peaking around mid-July, inviting travelers to experience its magic firsthand.
Events in Chuxiong
1. Huohuo Huan Ge – The Grand Fire Devotees Ceremony
Dates: July 18th – 20th
Time: 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Venue: Sun Calendar Cultural Park, Sun Square
Highlight Performance: “Tan Qi Xian Zi Tiao Jiao Lai” (弹起弦子跳脚来)
Experience the award-winning showcase blending traditional music, dance, and storytelling—a mesmerizing tribute to the festival’s cultural heart.
What to Expect:
- Fire Sacrifice Ceremony (Yi Hai Park, Zixi Yi Village, Taoyuan Lake Square) – Witness ancient rituals honoring fire’s sacred role in Yi tradition.
- “Play with Fire” Activities (Gaoxin District Citizen Square & other city parks) – Dance around crackling bonfires, sing folk songs, and immerse yourself in the Yi people’s jubilant spirit.
2. Flower Blooming in Yi Hai · Yi Fire Carnival
Dates: June 25th – Mid-August
Venue: Yi Hai Park, Chuxiong City
Immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of the Yi people as Yi Hai Park transforms into a lively cultural hub this summer. This extended celebration offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the rich heritage of Yunnan’s Yi community through a series of captivating events and activities.
What to Experience:
🌊 Water Celebration
- Enjoy boat rides across the park’s serene waters
- Participate in the magical lantern floating ceremony
- Celebrate the region’s breathtaking natural beauty through water-themed festivities
🔥 Cultural Performances
- Be mesmerized by traditional Yi dances
- Feel the rhythm of authentic Yi folk music
- Witness performances that embody the fiery spirit and pride of the Yi people
🎨 Cultural Market
- Discover handmade Yi crafts and artworks
- Take home unique Chuxiong-themed souvenirs
- Support local artisans at specially designated cultural stalls
3. Dream Back to Thousand Years – Fingertip Skills Yi Embroidery Exhibition
Dates: July 18-20, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Venue: Wanjiaba – Memory Chuxiong (Chuxiong Ethnic Embroidery Industry Park)
Step into the vibrant world of Yi heritage at this special exhibition showcasing the exquisite art of traditional Yi embroidery. This immersive experience celebrates centuries-old craftsmanship through interactive activities and stunning displays.
Featured Experiences:
- Handcrafted Treasures Market
- Discover authentic Yi embroidery masterpieces
- Browse exquisite handcrafted silver jewelry
- Join interactive workshops to learn these ancient techniques firsthand
👗 Cultural Fashion Spectacle
- Witness a dynamic runway show featuring:
○ Traditional Yi embroidered garments
○ Modern cultural fusion designs
○ Floral-inspired couture pieces - See how traditional motifs inspire contemporary fashion
📸 Dress-Up Experience
- Try on gorgeous traditional Yi costumes
- Capture memorable moments with our photo opportunities
- Participate in our cultural costume exchange activity
This unique event offers the perfect opportunity to:
✓ Appreciate UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage
✓ Support local Yi artisans and their craft
✓ Take home meaningful cultural souvenirs
✓ Create unforgettable memories
4. Indulge in Song and Dance – Torch and Yi Left Foot Dance Carnival
Dates: July 18-20
Times:
- July 18-19: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- July 20 (Grand Finale): 8:00 PM – Midnight
Festival Locations:
📍 Sun Calendar Cultural Park
📍 Yi Hai Park
📍 Gaoxin District Citizen Square
📍 Taoyuan Lake Square
📍 Zixi Yi Village, Zixi Township
Experience the Fire Culture of “Huohuo Chuxiong”
🔥 Sacred Fire Ceremonies
- Witness spectacular fire rituals across multiple venues
- Participate in traditional fire celebrations
- Feel the energy of Chuxiong’s legendary “Fire City” spirit
🕺 Yuanshuo Left-Foot Dancing
- Observe this unique traditional dance form
- Join in the rhythmic celebrations (all skill levels welcome)
- Experience living cultural heritage in action
Why Attend?
✓ Rare opportunity to participate in authentic fire ceremonies
✓ Multiple venues offer different perspectives on Yi traditions
✓ Extended hours on July 20 for the grand finale
✓ Perfect for cultural enthusiasts and photographers
Events in Dali
1. Zhuocheng Village Torch Festival in Xizhou
Date: July 19, 2025
Venue: Zhuocheng Village, Xizhou Town, Dali City
Step into a living cultural tapestry as Zhuocheng Village comes alive with the authentic traditions of the Bai people during this enchanting Torch Festival celebration.
Festival Highlights
🔥 Sacred Torch Lighting Ceremony
- Witness villagers ignite vibrant torches in a spectacular display
- Experience the symbolic warmth and unity of Bai community spirit
- Participate in this ancient ritual of hope and gratitude
💃 Traditional Bai Dance Performances
- Marvel at centuries-old dance forms passed down through generations
- Feel the rhythm of cultural pride and communal harmony
- Watch professional troupes and local villagers perform together
🎶 Folk Music & Time-Honored Rituals
- Listen to hauntingly beautiful Bai folk songs
- Observe sacred ceremonies expressing gratitude and blessings
- Discover musical traditions preserved for hundreds of years
Why You Should Attend:
✓ Authentic, non-commercialized Bai cultural experience
✓ Rare opportunity to interact with local villagers
✓ Photographer’s paradise with colorful traditional costumes
✓ Perfect for cultural enthusiasts and families
“The torch lights not just our village, but the path to preserving our heritage.” – Local Bai Elder
Visitor Tips:
- Arrive by 7:30 PM to secure good viewing spots
- Wear comfortable shoes for village terrain
- Respect local customs during ceremonies
2. Miaogu Village Torch Festival in Dongshan Yi Township, Xiangyun County
Date: July 18, 2025
Time: Evening celebrations (exact times TBD)
Location: Cultural Square, Miaogu Village, Dongshan Yi Township, Xiangyun County
Immerse yourself in an authentic Yi cultural experience at Miaogu Village’s vibrant Torch Festival celebration. As dusk falls, the Cultural Square transforms into a hub of traditional revelry, where firelight illuminates centuries-old customs.
Festival Highlights
🔥 Bonfire Revelry
- Join villagers in energetic circle dances around crackling bonfires
- Experience the warmth of Yi hospitality through shared celebrations
- Witness how fire symbolizes purification and community unity
🎤 Cultural Performances
- Enjoy dynamic traditional Yi singing and dancing troupes
- Discover unique musical instruments and folk art forms
- Feel the rhythm of ancient storytelling through performance
🛍️ Nostalgic Marketplace
- Browse handmade Yi crafts and local specialties
- Sample authentic Yi cuisine and festive treats
- Meet local artisans preserving traditional skills
Why Attend?
✓ Intimate, non-commercialized cultural experience
✓ Rare opportunity to celebrate alongside Yi villagers
✓ Perfect for photographers and culture enthusiasts
✓ Family-friendly atmosphere with activities for all ages
3. Torch Festival in Midu County
Dates: July 16-20, 2025
Venue: Ma Tai Village & Jingang New Village, Xinjie Town, Midu County
Immerse yourself in five unforgettable days of Yi cultural celebration, where fiery traditions meet breathtaking rural landscapes in Xiangyun’s most vibrant Torch Festival experience.
Festival Highlights
🌄 Scenic Cultural Immersion
- Set against Midu County’s stunning mountain vistas
- Authentic Yi village atmosphere with traditional architecture
- Perfect blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty
🔥 Signature Fire Celebrations
- Grand torch lighting ceremonies at dusk
- Massive bonfires illuminating the night sky
- Symbolic fire rituals representing Yi spiritual traditions
🎪 Cultural Showcases
- Dynamic Yi folk dance and music performances
- Traditional costume fashion shows
- Agricultural sports competitions (daytime)
🍲 Culinary & Craft Experiences
- Long Street Feast with authentic Yi banquet cuisine
- Midu County specialty food market
- Local mountain product exhibitions
🎨 Interactive Activities
- Yi village painting and calligraphy workshops
- Cultural photography opportunities
- Evening firework spectaculars
4. 2025 Torch Festival in Nanjian County
Dates: July 18-19, 2025
Venue: Multiple venues across Nanjian County
Celebrate the spirit of unity at Nanjian County’s vibrant Torch Festival, where diverse ethnic traditions come alive through two days of joyous festivities and cultural exchange.
Festival Highlights
🎭 Cultural Extravaganza
- Traditional Yi, Bai, and Hani song & dance performances
- Ancient instrumental music showcases
- Colorful ethnic costume parades
🏆 Traditional Sports Showdown
- Exciting ethnic wrestling competitions
- Archery contests using traditional techniques
- Unique local games testing strength and agility
🔥 Night of a Thousand Flames
- Township bonfire circles lighting up the entire county
- Community dancing to traditional folk music
- Cross-cultural sing-alongs under the stars
5. 2025 Weshan Torch Festival
Dates: July 15-19, 2025
Venue: Weshan Ancient Town & surrounding scenic areas
Step back in time during this five-day cultural extravaganza, where the historic lanes of Weshan Ancient Town come alive with the fiery spirit of the Torch Festival against a perfectly preserved traditional backdrop.
Festival Highlights
🏮 Ancient Town Illuminated
- Thousands of traditional lanterns and torches lighting up Ming-Qing architecture
- Nighttime strolls through beautifully preserved historic quarters
- Perfect harmony of ancient setting and living traditions
🎶 Cultural Time Capsule
- Daily folk music performances in ancient courtyards
- Traditional craft demonstrations by local artisans
- Heritage exhibitions in historic buildings
🍢 Culinary Journey Through Time
- Century-old recipe snack street with 50+ local vendors
- Special Torch Festival banquet dinners
- Cooking demonstrations of ancestral dishes
Events in Shilin
1. Torch Festival Fire Sending and Gathering Ceremony
Date: July 17, 2025
Time: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Venue: Shilin County Town – Guishan National Forest Park
Witness one of the Torch Festival’s most profound rituals as the Yi community enacts this ancient fire ceremony, carrying centuries of tradition through the majestic landscape of Guishan National Forest Park.
Ceremony Highlights
🔥 The Three Sacred Stages of Fire
- Fire Sending Procession (7:00-8:30 AM)
○ Community members carry the “old fire” up Guishan Mountain
○ Symbolic release of past burdens and misfortunes
○ Prayers for protection and prosperity in the new cycle - Sacred Fire Creation (8:30-9:30 AM)
○ Bimo priest performs traditional flint ignition
○ First sparks carefully nurtured into ceremonial flame
○ Main bonfire lit as communal focal point - Light-Bearing Ritual (9:30-11:00 AM)
○ Bimo transfers new fire to community representatives
○ Torches carried to every household in the region
○ Symbolic spreading of hope and unity
2. Torch Festival Opening Ceremony and Theme Gala
Date: July 17, 2025
Time: 8:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Venue: Shilin County National Sports Stadium
Kick off the Torch Festival in spectacular fashion at this electrifying opening event, where flames of tradition meet modern showmanship in a dazzling celebration of Yi culture.
Event Highlights
🎪 Grand Opening Spectacle (8:00-8:45 PM)
- Hundreds of performers in traditional Yi costumes
- Dramatic fire-lit procession entering the stadium
- Official declaration of festival commencement
🔥 Sacred Flame Ceremony (8:45-9:15 PM)
- Ritual lighting of the 10-meter central bonfire
- Bimo priest blessing for community prosperity
- Fire dancers creating mesmerizing patterns
💃 Cultural Extravaganza (9:15-10:30 PM)
- Professional Yi song and dance troupes
- Modern interpretations of traditional arts
- Crowd participation segments
- Grand finale fireworks display
3. Yi Traditional Wrestling Competition
Dates: July 18-19, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM Daily
Venue: Shilin County National Sports Stadium
Immerse yourself in the thrilling spectacle of Yi traditional wrestling (格), an ancient martial art that has been the pride of Yi warriors for centuries. This two-day championship combines raw athleticism with deep cultural significance.
Event Highlights
🥋 The Art of Yi Wrestling
- Witness authentic “Ge” wrestling techniques passed down through generations
- Observe intricate pre-match rituals and ceremonial challenges
- See how wrestlers use traditional hemp belts for leverage and control
🏆 Championship Battles
- Over 100 competitors from Yi villages across Yunnan
- Multiple weight categories showcasing different styles
- Grand finale match for the “Torch Festival Champion” title
🎭 Cultural Elements
- Bimo priest blessings before matches
- Traditional Yi martial music accompaniment
- Victory dances celebrating the warrior spirit
Why This Is Special:
✓ Rare opportunity to see authentic Yi martial traditions
✓ More than just sport – a living cultural practice
✓ Electric atmosphere with passionate local crowds
✓ Perfect for sports and culture enthusiasts alike
4. Bullfight
Dates: July 17-20, 2025
Venue: Multiple traditional arenas across Shilin County
Witness the thunderous spectacle of Yi bullfighting, an ancient tradition where mighty bulls clash in displays of strength and prestige that have captivated audiences for nearly a millennium.
Festival Highlights
🐂 The Art of Bull Combat
- Authentic Yi-style bull matches (different from Spanish bullfighting)
- Carefully bred fighting bulls from mountain villages
- Natural horn-to-horn combat without human intervention
🏟️ Multiple Competition Venues
- Daily matches at different traditional arenas
- Varying bull weight classes and age groups
- Championship finals on July 20th
🎉 Cultural Celebrations
- Bull parades through participating villages
- Traditional betting rituals among spectators
- Victory ceremonies honoring champion bulls
5. Ashima Food Festival
Dates: July 15-23 | 10AM-9PM Daily
Venue: Shilin County Sports Center
Indulge in a 9-day gourmet journey through Yi culinary traditions at this vibrant celebration of authentic ethnic flavors and local specialties!
Festival Highlights
🍖 Signature Yi Delicacies
- Sizzling Yizu Baba (Yi-style cured meats)
- Hearty Tuo Tuo Rou (steamed pork buns)
- Fragrant Huoguo Dips with 18 mountain herbs
🌶️ Flavor Adventures
- Chili sampling station (mild to extreme)
- Traditional Yi banquet experiences
- Live demonstrations of ancient cooking techniques
🛍️ Marketplace Treasures
- Local honey & wild mushroom vendors
- Artisanal Yi cheese and dairy products
- Handcrafted bamboo tableware
Events in Kunming
1. Kunming Torch Festival at Ethnic Village
Dates: July 16-20, 2025 | Nightly Events 6:30PM-11PM
Venue: Yunnan Ethnic Village, No. 1310 Dianchi Road, Xishan District
Immerse yourself in Kunming’s most vibrant Torch Festival celebration at Yunnan Ethnic Village, where the rich traditions of Yi culture come alive through dazzling performances and authentic culinary experiences.
Festival Highlights
🔥 Nighttime Spectacles (7PM-10:30 PM Daily)
- Sacred Fire Ritual: Witness the ceremonial lighting of the 8-meter main torch
- Ethnic Fire Dance: Professional troupes perform with flaming props
- Bonfire Circles: Join 1,000+ participants dancing under the stars
🍽️ Culinary Experiences
- Long Street Banquet (July 17 & 19, 6PM):
○ 200-meter feast table with 68 Yi specialties
○ Must-try: Liangshan smoked pork, Yizu flower rice - Night Market Stalls: Open daily with regional snacks
Practical Information
🚇 Transportation
- Metro: Line 5 to Yuhu Village Station (Exit B) +
○ 10-min shared bike ride (1.7km)
○ OR take shuttle bus No. A6 (every 15min) - Parking: Limited spaces available (arrive before 6PM)
2. Fourth “Burning Expo” Torch Carnival at Kunming Expo Park
Dates: July 18-20, 2025 | 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM Daily
Venue: 439 Bailong Road, Panlong District (100m from Expo Park Metro Station)
Experience where ancient fire traditions meet contemporary culture at Kunming’s most innovative Torch Festival event – a dazzling collision of ethnic heritage and modern entertainment!
Daily Schedule Highlights
🌅 Golden Hour (4:00-6:30 PM)
- Ethnic craft markets & food stalls opening
- Traditional costume photo ops
- Acoustic folk music performances
🔥 Twilight Rituals (6:30-8:00 PM)
- Grand fire ignition ceremony with 360° projection mapping
- Multi-ethnic dance spectacular
- Flame jugglers and fire performers
🎧 Nighttime Energy (8:00-10:00 PM)
- EDM mainstage featuring top DJs (July 18: Ethnic fusion set)
- YCG Anime Zone with cosplay competitions
- Silent disco with traditional instrument remixes
Must-Experience Features
✧ Cultural Fusion Zones
- Electronic Erhu performances
- Glowing LED ethnic costume parade (9PM nightly)
- Anime-inspired Yi pattern art installations
✧ Gourmet Alley
- Modern twists on Yi snacks
- Bubble tea with torch festival flavors
- Themed cocktail bars
🚇 Getting There
- Metro: Line 5 to Expo Park Station (Exit A) → 2 min walk
- Ride-hailing: Designated drop-off point at East Gate
- Bike-share: Ample parking near venue
3. Luolong Torch Festival
Dates: July 18-19, 2025 | 6:30 PM – Midnight
Venue: Luolong Community (1.3km from Chunrongjie Station)
Immerse yourself in an authentic neighborhood Torch Festival celebration where the local community keeps ancient traditions vibrantly alive through dance, music and shared joy.
Festival Highlights
💃 Community Dance Extravaganza
- Non-stop circle dances led by local elders
- Interactive dance workshops for visitors
- Spontaneous dance battles between neighborhoods
🔥 Sacred Fire Celebrations
- Community torch lighting ceremony (7PM nightly)
- Dozens of bonfires lighting up the square
- Fire jumping rituals for the brave
🎶 Live Cultural Performances
- Traditional Yi mouth harp demonstrations
- Drumming circles using ancient techniques
- Community choir singing folk songs
Local Flavors
✧ Homemade Yi rice wine tasting
✧ Grilled street food from family recipes
✧ Artisan craft beer with local herbs
🚇 Getting There
- Metro: Line 1 to Chunrongjie (Exit B) →
○ 15-min scenic walk through local markets
○ OR take community shuttle (every 10min) - Bike: 5-min ride from station (bike lanes available)
These festivals offer opportunities to witness the power of fire as a symbol of unity, resilience and cultural pride. Whether watching traditional performances, participating in fire rituals or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, the Yi Torch Festival is an authentic cultural adventure full of color, music and warmth.
Do not miss this great celebration. Contact Us Now!
Play your adventure with us together.
Image Sources: Migooo, Joan W, Yunnan Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, Jindizizai, Huakai Chuncheng, Li Bai, Qipaojiaoyan, Memeyue, Kunming Xiaoyuan, Yunfan, Songshu, Alexander Akimenko