Zhuang people in Guangxi celebrate San-Yue-San Festival. (Photo/CGTN)
The third day of the third month on the Chinese lunar calendar marks the festival known as "San-Yue-San." It's recognized by many ethnic Chinese, especially the Zhuang people who live in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The event is similar to Valentine's Day in the West.
It is said that March 3 was the birthday of the Yellow Emperor, a legendary Chinese sovereign and cultural hero considered in Chinese mythology to be the ancestor of all Chinese people. Various ethnic groups celebrate this festival in their own ways.
For the Zhuang people today, San-Yue-San is more of a community occasion, where they mark traditions and, more importantly, cherish the season.
The highlight of the annual celebration is Gexu Festival, a singing competition. The focus of the festival is not so much about qualifying for the next round or winning, but more about trying to attract a partner with blissful singing.
Bamboo dancing is another traditional activity and youngsters like to dress up, beat drums and express their admiration for each other.
And five-colored sticky rice is the festive dish deemed fit for this occasion. For the Zhuang people, this rice is good for one's health and represents wishes for a colorful new year.
