Guizhou Province, Southwest China—The Miao King City scenic area in Songtao Miao Autonomous County was ablaze with color and tradition on May 5, 2025, as the annual April 8th Festival unfolded. This cherished festival of the Miao ethnic group, also known as the “Yanu Festival,” falls on the eighth day of the fourth month in the traditional Chinese calendar.
The event showcased the rich tapestry of Miao culture. Spectacular performances of flower drum dances and enchanting folk songs filled the air, while thrilling displays of unique customs left the audience in awe. Fishing competitions and bullfighting matches added excitement to the festivities, and long-table banquets offered a taste of authentic Miao culinary traditions.
Miao people from across the province and beyond, adorned in their finest traditional costumes, gathered to celebrate. They joyfully sang and danced alongside tourists, creating a harmonious and festive atmosphere that transcended ethnic boundaries.
Originating from the commemoration of the revered Miao hero Yanu, the April 8th Festival holds deep historical roots. Its cultural significance was officially recognized in 2011 when it was inscribed on the third batch of China’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage List.
Today, the festival has evolved into a grand carnival embraced by all ethnic groups. It stands as the most significant festival for the Miao people, serving as a momentous occasion for ancestor worship, honoring heroes, and communal celebration. The festival vividly reflects the Miao people’s passion for diligence and their unwavering aspirations for a better life.
