Celebrated twice a year, Taoliaogui is a distinctive traditional festival of the Huayao people, a branch of the Yao ethnic group residing in Longhui County, Shaoyang City, Hunan Province.
The name “Taoliaogui,” which means “getting away from evil,” represents a tradition with around 1,000 years of history and is recognized as an intangible cultural heritage of Hunan Province.
This grand festival offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the rich ethnic culture of the Huayao people. During the celebrations, Huayao women wear their most exquisite hand-embroidered garments, showcasing their detailed craftsmanship. The festival also provides a platform for these women to exchange embroidery techniques with one another.
Another important aspect of the Taoliaogui Festival is the singing of folk songs, with men and women of all ages participating. It is also an excellent occasion to witness the diverse talents of the Huayao people through various performances.
The festival is celebrated annually on the 2nd to 4th days and the 8th to 10th days of the seventh month in the traditional Chinese calendar, which this year falls on August 5-7 and August 11-13.