In the rolling hills and verdant landscapes of southwest China, the Dong people are preparing for one of their most significant cultural events—the Dong New Year Festival. This ancient celebration, with a history spanning over 2,500 years, is not only a time to honor ancestors but also a moment to reunite families and communities after the busy harvest season.
The Dong New Year Festival is a vibrant tapestry of traditions that reflect the rich heritage of the Dong people, said to be descendants of the ancient Guyue tribe. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, the timing of the Dong New Year varies among different Dong communities, with most festivities occurring in December. The celebrations can last for a week or even longer, filling villages with music, dance, and the aroma of traditional foods.
During the festival, Dong families come together to pay homage to their ancestors through rituals and ceremonies that have been passed down through generations. It’s a time when elders share stories, and young people engage in traditional arts, ensuring the preservation of their unique cultural identity.
One of the festival’s highlights is the performance of grand songs, known as “Gal Laox“, a form of polyphonic choir singing without a conductor or accompaniment. These songs, often about nature, love, and daily life, showcase the Dong people’s profound connection with their environment and community.
The Dong New Year is also an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the Dong culture. Travelers are welcomed into the villages to experience traditional hospitality, participate in local customs, and witness the intricate craftsmanship of Dong architecture, including the iconic drum towers and wind-and-rain bridges.
In recognition of its cultural significance, the Dong New Year Festival was included in China’s list of national-level intangible cultural heritage in 2011. This designation highlights the importance of preserving and promoting the traditions of the Dong people in an ever-globalizing world.
As the sounds of drums and songs echo through the valleys of southwest China, the Dong New Year Festival stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Dong people. It is a celebration that not only honors the past but also looks to the future, strengthening community bonds and inviting the world to share in their rich cultural legacy.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
