Prepare your camera and don attire that is flame-resistant, as you are about to witness an awe-inspiring spectacle – the fire dragon dance, one of China’s most remarkable displays. The dragon, a revered mythical being in Chinese traditions, frequently takes center stage in celebrations and ceremonial events.
Dragon dances have been observed on ceremonial occasions
Since the Han Dynasty (202 BCE to 220 CE), fire dragon dances started to be recorded during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) and the Republican era (1912-1949). According to some historians, fire dragon dances may have even originated earlier, during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).
Kwok Kam Chau, a professor at Hong Kong Baptist University specializing in festivals and religion in Chinese societies, explains that these dances served various purposes, including the celebration of festivals and the prevention of plagues. Kwok and his colleague, professor Chung Po Yin, have dedicated several years to researching fire dragon dances.
From an anthropological standpoint, Kwok explains that the fire dragon parade route carries immense importance, as it reflects the local residents’ perception of their community and its geopolitical connections.
In the present day, fire dragon dances are conducted nationwide as a part of the Spring Festival/Lunar New Year celebrations. However, the performances vary in terms of their shapes and forms.
For those interested in witnessing this vibrant Chinese tradition firsthand, we have compiled a list of the best choices available.
Puzhai Fire Dragon, Fengshun County, Guangdong
Puzhai Village, situated in Fengshun County in Guangdong province, has been organizing fire dragon dance performances annually during China’s Lantern Festival, which occurs on the 15th day of the Lunar New Year (February 24 this year), since the Qing Dynasty.
This age-old custom was officially recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage of China in 2008.
As the firecrackers ignite, a group of men without shirts swiftly enter the village square, collaborating to raise a majestic dragon that stretches over 30 meters in length and is adorned with fireworks, illuminating its body with a dazzling glow.
The festivities typically commence with a range of dazzling fireworks exhibitions and captivating performances. Subsequently, a respected elder from the village ignites the fireworks adorning the vibrant dragon, thereby culminating the celebration.
Steel Fire Dragon :
The Steel Fire Dragon Dance has been a long-standing tradition in various towns within China’s Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, located in Hunan province. This captivating dance is performed annually during the Lantern Festival and is believed to bring favorable weather and bountiful harvests for the upcoming year.
The performance commences with a lively combination of drums, gongs, firecrackers, and the cheers of spectators. As the dance progresses, fireworks burst forth from numerous bamboo pipes lining the dance route, while the dragon dancers fearlessly navigate through the cascading sparks.
Some of the dances culminate by guiding the dragon into a river, while others conclude when the dragon is completely consumed by fire, leaving behind only its metallic structure.
Once considered a fading tradition, the Steel Fire Dragon Dance has experienced a resurgence, thanks to the dedicated efforts of local enthusiasts who have tirelessly promoted it through captivating images and videos shared online.
In recognition of its cultural significance, the Steel Fire Dragon Dance was officially included in China’s list of intangible cultural heritage in 2018.
The Steel Fire Dragon Dance has been a traditional performance in various towns within China’s Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, located in Hunan province, for centuries.
This captivating dance takes place annually during the Lantern Festival and is believed to bring favorable weather and bountiful harvests in the upcoming year.
For a truly awe-inspiring experience of witnessing a grand fire dragon dance set against a backdrop of historical significance, one should visit Huanglongxi in Sichuan province.
Huanglongxi, situated in the city of Chengdu, boasts an array of ancient architectural marvels dating back to the Qing Dynasty (1644 to 1912). The town is particularly renowned for its numerous temples, making it a highly sought-after destination during the Lunar New Year festivities.
Each year, the town organizes a multi-day Lunar New Year fair by the pier, featuring a fire dragon dance on the first five days (February 10-14, 2024) as well as the 15th day (February 24, 2024) of the lunar month.
Unlike the traditional use of firecrackers, this unique performance involves the tossing of molten iron lava into the air. As the lava gradually cools and scatters shimmering sparks, the dragon seemingly “chases” a lantern, resulting in a truly spectacular spectacle.
Tongliang Fire Dragon :
The Chongqing province’s Tongliang Fire Dragon is undeniably one of the most magnificent fire dragon dance performances in existence. As glowing droplets of molten iron ascend into the sky, illuminating the darkness, the fire dragon’s majestic silhouette gracefully twirls around.
Recognized as the birthplace of the fire dragon, Tongliang district now shares this spectacle with other regions of Chongqing. However, one of the prime locations to witness this extraordinary event is Qicaimeng Park.
From February 10 to 17, 2024, the park will present a captivating 50-minute show featuring the Tongliang Fire Dragon. Additionally, visitors can indulge in various other enchanting light displays and enjoy the festivities taking place within the park.