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Reveling in Water Splashing Festivities

乐在泼水节

The more water you are splashed with, banna many times, but this is the first time I’ve
the more blessings you receive. On the day experienced the Water Splashing Festival. The
of the Water Splashing Festival, people scene is grand, the activities are plentiful, and
donning various traditional ethnic costumes it’s incredibly joyful.” said Chen Muyun, a
sang and danced with guests from afar. Thai citizen who has lived in China for over
They splashed each other with water as a 10 years and chose to celebrate the festival in
sign of blessing, transforming every place Xishuangbanna this year.
into a lively water wonderland and immers- Tens of thousands of people participated
ing everyone in joy. in water splashing, a bamboo raft race took
In Xishuangbanna, every corner was place, a dazzling aurora show was staged, a
brimming with a vibrant festive atmosphere. food festival was held, and a friendly rattan
Early in the morning, as the first rays of ball match was organized between Chi-
sunshine touched the tropical rainforest, the na and Myanmar. In the Dehong Dai and
sounds of gongs and drums began to rise Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture, the streets
and fall, creating a lively and extraordinary and alleys were alive with parties and rev-
scene. On the streets, beautifully decorated elry. At the opening ceremony of the Water
themed floats moved back and forth, while Splashing Carnival in Mangshi City, teams
people took out their cell phones to capture from different ethnic groups played Mang
and record this rare spectacle. gongs and elephant foot drums, dancing
At the Water Splashing Square in joyfully to showcase the rich and diverse
Jinghong City, Xishuangbanna Prefecture, cultures of Dehong, much to the delight of
people holding various water vessels chased tourists.
and splashed each other to their hearts’ con- In Gengma Dai and Wa Autonomous
tent. With water glistening in the sunlight, County of Lincang City, a water-splashing
laughter echoed in waves, filling the sky feast that blends tradition with modernity
above the square. “I’ve come to Xishuang- was staged. Some people beat the elephant
foot drums and danced the Gayang folk
dance, while others followed the rhythm
of lively music, releasing their passion and
enjoying the water splashing festivities.