Next: 27 Jul 2027; events run several days
火把节
The biggest night of the Yi year: torches lit from a ceremonial fire are carried around fields and villages to drive off pests and bad luck, then piled into bonfires for dancing late into the night. Chuxiong runs the largest program at the Yi Ten-Month Solar Calendar Culture Park 彝族十月太阳历文化园 and Yi Ancient Town 彝人古镇, the Sani celebrate at the Stone Forest with wrestling and bullfights, Bai villages around Dali raise tall decorated torches a day later, and near Puzhehei the festivities become the Flower Face Festival 花脸节.
How to join: Base yourself in Chuxiong, where the opening ceremony and nightly bonfire dancing are open to everyone, or visit a village celebration with a local guide. Anyone can join the circle dances: take the hands on either side and follow the steps.
Etiquette: People toss pine-resin powder onto torches to make them flare as a blessing, so wear cotton rather than synthetics and tie back long hair. Book Chuxiong rooms early.
