March 3rd Festival of Zhuang Ethnic Group
March 3rd is the biggest songfest date in Zhuang region, also named Song Fairy Festival (Ge Xian Jie), a folk festival in memory of Liu Sanjie. In 1984, the People’s Government of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region formally declared this date to be a regional festival for Zhuang people – March 3rd songfest.
On March 3rd every year, the capital city of Autonomous Region Nanning City and other places will hold magnificent songfests. During the festival, besides the traditional songfest activities, there are various forms of entertainment programs, such as seizing fireworks, throwing embroidered balls, touching colored eggs, Zhuang operas, colorful dragon dances, poem contests, films, martial arts performance, and acrobatic shows etc. In addition, various commercial activities gradually appear, such as business trade talks, investment negotiations and so on. A new custom “promoting economic development on the cultural stage” is in formation. On that day, people from home and abroad get together in Zhuang region and present a grand, lively, prosperous scene. Ceaseless music expresses people’s nostalgia for Liu Sanjie as well as their wish for harvest, love and happiness.
The March 3rd Festival is a significant cultural celebration among the Zhuang ethnic group in China. It’s also known as the “San Yue San” Festival, as it falls on the third day of the third month of the lunar calendar. This festival has deep roots in Zhuang culture and is celebrated with various traditional customs and activities.
During the March 3rd Festival, Zhuang people typically engage in the following:
- Dragon Boat Racing: Dragon boat racing is a central activity during the March 3rd Festival. Communities organize dragon boat races on rivers or lakes as a way to commemorate the festival and promote unity among villagers.
- Singing and Dancing: The Zhuang people have a rich tradition of folk songs and dances. During the March 3rd Festival, there are performances of traditional Zhuang music and dance, showcasing the cultural heritage of the ethnic group.
- Eating Traditional Food: Special dishes are prepared for the festival, featuring local ingredients and traditional recipes. Families gather to enjoy feasts together, strengthening bonds and celebrating the occasion.
- Wearing Traditional Costumes: Participants often dress in traditional Zhuang attire, which includes vibrant colors and intricate embroidery. Wearing traditional costumes is a way to honor and preserve Zhuang culture.
- Paying Homage to Ancestors: Ancestor worship is an important aspect of Zhuang culture. During the March 3rd Festival, families visit ancestral graves to pay respects and offer sacrifices, ensuring the blessings and protection of their ancestors.
Overall, the March 3rd Festival is a time for the Zhuang people to celebrate their cultural identity, strengthen community ties, and pass down traditions from generation to generation. It’s an occasion filled with joy, camaraderie, and reverence for their heritage.
