Yi Torch Festival

The Yi Torch Festival is a significant annual traditional event celebrated by the Yi ethnic group in Xichang, the capital of Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, located in southwest China’s Sichuan Province. This centuries-old ritual, typically held in mid-August, is deeply rooted in the belief of warding off pests, safeguarding harvests, and bringing health and prosperity for the year ahead. The 2026 celebration is scheduled for August 9th.

During the festival, thousands of torches illuminate the night sky, transforming Xichang into a vibrant sea of fire and joy. Festivities include the lighting of numerous bonfires—with eighty-six specifically mentioned—and grand torch parades through the streets. A central cultural highlight is the Dati dance, performed by thousands, alongside the revival of ancient folk customs that celebrate Yi heritage.

Beyond its cultural and spiritual importance, the Yi Torch Festival also serves as a catalyst for tourism and rural development in the Liangshan region. The area's unique plateau climate offers an average summer temperature of only 21 degrees Celsius, making it an attractive escape from the heat. Local communities leverage the festival and their cultural and ecological resources to draw visitors, integrating traditional customs with ecological tourism and rural revitalization efforts, contributing to local income and showcasing Yi culture.