[InKunming--Yunnan] On July 18, the one-month “2018 China Yunnan Puzhehei Black Face Festival” opened in Yunnan’s Puzhehei where is famous for picturesque wetland park. During the festival, Qiubei county and Puzhehei area will stage a variety of performance and cultural activities.

‘Black face festival’ is a traditional festival of Yi people. A legend tells that the ancestor of Yi plaster black ashes on face to expel monsters and kill evils. With a history of more than 1,000 years, it becomes the most famous festival in Puzhehei.

On the opening ceremony, the local youth performed four programs with cultural and national elements. Introduced Yi’s sacrifice rites, toasting culture and left-foot dance to visitors. Everybody plaster ashes on each other’s faces, neck and arm. The more black you become, the more wishes you will get.

The festival lasts until August 18. From July 19 to 22, 100 stringer (a three-stringed plucked instrument) players will give performance on Jiaolian square to show the unique song and dance culture of Qiubei. Moreover, there will be a singing competition where singers around the country can compete for final award (more than 100,000 yuan) at Qiubei from July 20 to 22.

Besides, the Torch Festival of Yi nationality is about to be celebrated on July 29. At that time, there will be an art performance full of Yi style in Qiubei county. A torch parade and bonfire party will be held to invite visitors dance with local people.

In addition, now is the best time to admire lotus in Puzhehei. Rowing a boat and taking a water fight accompanied with beautiful lotus are the best choice to spend this summer. 

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(Editors: Christine, Rachel)