Located in southern China, the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region is home to a rich diversity of ethnic cultures, where centuries-old traditions continue to thrive. Among them is the Sun-Drying Festival. Dating back to the Han Dynasty, the festival originated from the belief that the intense midsummer sun possessed purifying powers. On the sixth day of the sixth lunar month, scholars aired their books, women laid out their garments to dry, and farmers spread out fermenting grains—a bustling tradition that marked an important moment in the agricultural calendar.

Today, clothes-drying has become the centerpiece of the celebration. In Dazhai Village in Guilin, the annual Red Yao Sun-Drying Festival recently took place. Red Yao women brought out their treasured bridal gowns, embroidered jackets, and skirts, draping them over the balconies and railings of their traditional stilt houses. Against the backdrop of layered rice terraces, the vibrant scarlet garments created a breathtaking contrast, transforming the ancient village—recognized as a UNWTO "Best Tourism Village"—into a spectacular sea of color. Young villagers returning home and visitors from across the country gathered to experience the festive atmosphere.

During the festival, Red Yao women demonstrated their traditional garment-making techniques, a national intangible cultural heritage. With deft hands and flying needles, intricate motifs of flowers, birds, insects, and fish gradually came to life on the fabric. Hundreds of Yao women also participated in a collective long-hair dressing ceremony, followed by a lively traditional group wedding. The series of festivities transformed the centuries-old celebration into a vibrant showcase of ethnic culture, captivating visitors from both China and abroad.